For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people.
2 Corinthians 8:3-4 NIV
As Paul encouraged the church in Corinth to support the poor believers in Jerusalem, he used the churches of Macedonia as an example. These churches, even though they were poor, gave generously. And not just a little generous. Paul describes their giving as rich generosity, more than most would have thought possible.
The Motive for Giving
And their motive for giving was significant. They did not view giving as an obligation, something they were supposed to do. Instead, they considered being able to share in meeting the needs of others as a privilege. It was something that they wanted to do, and they pled with Paul to be allowed this privilege of giving.
All too often, it seems we give out of obligation. We give a tithe, or some other amount, to our church because it is expected of us. Or we grudgingly contribute in response to some appeal out of a sense of guilt or because we feel pressured. But how often do we consider it a privilege to be able to give; and look for opportunities to help others in need? Understanding that as we give to others, Jesus views it as something done to him (Matt. 25:31-40). Consider following the example of these Macedonian churches in pleading for the privilege of sharing with others who are in need.