Now, brethren, we wish to make known to you the grace of God which has been given in the churches of Macedonia, that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. - 2 Corinthians 8:2
As a pastor I have conducted a lot of financial counseling. Some of it has come by request, some out of a crisis, but most through premarital classes. In this experience with young couples I have found that most do not practice biblical stewardship, which I believe includes giving sacrificially to the ministry of their local church.
Many "reasons" are given for neglecting this practice, but the usual excuse that I hear is, "We cannot afford it." While this may appear true on paper, spiritually-speaking a person cannot afford to neglect sacrificial giving. It is a biblical principle that reflects upon a person's understanding of God's total ownership. To ignore His sovereign ownership of all we manage is to also reject any understanding of His providential care. We simply can't afford such disobedience.
The churches of ancient Macedonia did not give out of their surplus, they gave out of their poverty. In this way, God received the glory and they received His intended blessing. Remember, there will never be a wrong time to be generous with God.
If I leave behind me 10 pounds, you and all mankind bear witness against that I lived and died a thief and a robber. - John Wesley
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