More than money
The heart of giving
"More than money: The Heart of Giving"
1. The Macedonian Example: Generosity Amid Hardship (2
Corinthians 8:1-5)
8 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among
the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy
and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For
they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their
own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the
saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and
then by the will of God to us.
Context: Paul speaks to the Corinthians about the churches of Macedonia, who,
despite their own poverty and affliction, gave generously to help their brothers and
sisters in Christ.
Principle: The Macedonian churches gave “beyond their means” not out of wealth but
out of faith and love, driven by their joy in Christ and commitment to support others.
Application for Today: Like the Macedonians, many of us may not feel wealthy or
comfortable. Yet, God sees the heart and honors even the smallest gift. when it’s given
with joy and faith. Giving in hard times is an act of trust in God, a way to place our
“treasure” and, therefore, our “heart” in His hands (Matthew 6:21).
2. Dorcas (Tabitha) Legacy: Giving of Time and Talents (Acts 9:36-42)
Dorcas Restored to Life
36 Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means
Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. 37 In those days she became ill
and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 Since
Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him,
urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” 39 So Peter rose and went with them.
And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him
weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with
them. 40 But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the
body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she
sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and
widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa,
and many believed in the Lord.
Context: Dorcas, a disciple in Joppa, was known for her “good works and acts of
charity.” She used her skills to make clothes for the needy, especially for widows. Her
generosity was so impactful that, when she died, the widows and disciples sought Peter
to come and help.
Principle: Generosity is not limited to financial giving. Dorcas gave her time and talents
to serve her community, and her work was a ministry of love that left a lasting legacy.
Application for Today: Even if we don’t feel we have the financial means to give, we all
have gifts and talents that God can use to bless others. We can follow Dorcas’s
example by using our abilities—whether through serving, creating, teaching, or
helping—to make a difference.
1 Timothy 5:8
But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his
household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
1 John 3:16-18
16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our
lives for the brothers. 17 But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in
need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 18 Little
children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
Practical Takeaways
Consider How You Can Give—Not Just Money, but also Time and Talents: Like
Dorcas, find ways to bless others with your unique skills, whether that’s making meals,
offering a listening ear, or sharing an encouraging word.
Trust God’s Provision and Give from the Heart: In economic hardships, giving
financially might feel intimidating. But God honors even the smallest gift given with love,
and He is faithful to provide for our needs.
Remember the Joy in Giving as an Act of Worship: The Macedonians found joy in
their giving, even in hardship. We too can experience the joy of blessing others,
knowing we’re part of God’s work and are representing His love to a world in need.
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