2 Corinthians 8-9  This section of Paul's letter focuses on generosity.  He begins by telling about the generosity of the churches in Macedonia.  These churches were experiencing many trials and were "desperately poor"  - but in spite of that they were giving towards the offering that Paul was collecting for the church in Jerusalem.  In fact, they "begged and pleaded.. for the privilege of sharing  in this service for God's people."  More importantly, they first" gave themselves to the Lord".  May this be the testimony for our church today.

Paul encouraged the church in Corinth to also give generously as they had promised. Paul gives us some important truths about giving:

v7 - we should aim to  "excel" in giving as much as we strive to excel in faith, speech, knowledge, diligence and love..
v8 - our giving is a test of our love, our earnestness, and our sincerity.
v9 - our giving is a reflection of our Lord Jesus Christ who gave Himself, becoming poor for our sake.
v 10-11 - it is important to finish what we start in regard to our promises or intentions in giving.
v12 - our giving should be with "eagerness" ;
The amount we give is not what matters; it is accepted and measured- by what we have, not by what we don't have;
v14 - our giving to those in need may one day be reciprocated when we are in need and others can help us by their generosity.
v 16-24 - those receiving or overseeing the gifts must be careful to "take pains to do what is right not only in the sight of God but also in the sight of other people."  

9:1-5  A zeal for giving is not enough, we must follow through.
v7  Giving is a personal decision - "Each should give according to what he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 
v8  When we give cheerfully and generously we can be assured that  "God has the power to provide you with every gracious gift in abundance, so that always in every way you will have all you need yourselves and be able to provide abundantly for every good cause.." 
v 11 - We are "enriched" by being generous.
God is glorified and receives thanks when we are generous.
v13-15  Unity and love are increased as we give generously to those in need.

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift." 

Father in heaven, You have given us the indescribable gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, Your Son, who died for us.  You have given us everything.. for truly there is nothing that we have that has not come from You.  You are gracious and kind.  We give You thanks.  Father, we have found it true that You supply all we need so that we can give to others.  We can never out-give You.  We can give eagerly and generously and cheerfully as we strive to excel in this area of our walk with You, because we know You love us and will provide.  May we be fully surrendered to following Your lead in giving.  We ask for wisdom, integrity, and discernment.  We pray that You will be glorified and that thanksgiving will overflow to You. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.