Paul tells Corinthian Christians about the grace God has given the Macedonian churches. By doing so, he encourages them to excel in the grace of giving to the churches in Judea. The Macedonian churches gave generously and sacrificially out of overflowing joy in the midst of severe trial and extreme poverty. To them, giving was not a burden, but a privilege. They gave voluntarily. To Paul's surprise, they gave themselves first of all to the Lord and to others according to God's will. Paul wanted Corinthian Christians not to love with their words but prove the sincerity of their love by action.

Jesus is the Creator God, the owner of everything, the richest person in the universe, but he became poor when he gave up his power and glory to become flesh. He lived sacrificially to serve all kinds of needy people with no place to lay his head. Finally, he gave his life as a sacrifice of atonement for our sins. We were spiritually bankrupt, but, through his poverty, Jesus enriched us with the grace of forgiveness of sins, meaning, purpose, and much more. Those who know the grace of Jesus are compelled to share what they have with those who are less fortunate. How are we using what God has given us to enrich others?


Application: Lord, thank you for your grace which enriched my life beyond my imagination. Help me joyfully and willingly share your blessings with those who are less fortunate.
One Word: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ