1 We want you to know, brothers,[a] 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[b] 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. 6 Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. 7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you[c]—see that you excel in this act of grace also. – 2 Corinthians 8:1-7 ESV
Most of us don’t have a money problem, we have a mindset problem.
2 Do not be conformed to this world,[a] but be transformed by the renewal of your mind… – Romans 12:2a ESV
Mindset Shifts
1. Not enough to more than enough
1 We want you to know, brothers,[a] 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. – 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 ESV
“The hardest financial skill is getting the goal post to stop moving.” – Morgan House
2. Living beyond our means to giving beyond our mean
3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, – 2 Corinthians 8:3 ESV
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. – Matthew 6:33 ESV
3. Our Power to God’s Power
6 Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace.7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you[a]—see that you excel in this act of grace also. – 2 Corinthians 8:6-7 ESV
8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency[a] in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. – 2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV
8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. – 2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT
11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. – 2 Corinthians 9:11 ESV
7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you[a]—see that you excel in this act of grace also. – 2 Corinthians 8:7 ESV
We have more than enough to give beyond our means because God’s power is at work within us.