II Cor. 8: 9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you by His poverty might become rich.
Paul commended the Macedonia's for their generosity during a severe test of affliction. They gave above and beyond their means to relieve the suffering of other saints by giving themselves first to God and then to the needs of fellow believers. So likewise, as believers who excel in faith, speech, knowledge, and earnestness, we also need to excel in this act of grace not be way of command but by way of genuine love always remembering the grace of Jesus who gave up all riches for us so that through His poverty we could become rich.
If I am to remember what the Lord has done and follow in His footsteps that means serving while suffering. But in the case of the Corinthians, their abundance should supply the need of other believers. So whether I suffer a severe test of finances, disease, bad circumstances, family problems, etc. or whether I have an abundance of finances, health, great circumstances, and wonderful family relationships, I need to be meeting the needs of others.
Father,
Keep my eyes ever focused on You and Your great gift of grace. Help me to look outward to the needs of others and serve as You did. Give me the strength to depose selfishness in all its ugly manifestations.
In Jesus name,
Amen
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