devotional post # 2187
2 Corinthians 8:5-8
2Co 8:5 and this did not happen as we expected it to, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then –because it was what God wants — to us.
2Co 8:6 For this purpose, we urged Titus that just like he had started, so he should complete among you this blessing.
2Co 8:7 But since you succeed in everything– in believing, in speaking, in knowing, in every kind of enthusiasm, and in being loved by us– make sure that you succeed in this blessing also.
2Co 8:8 I am not saying this as a command, but to prove that your love also is genuine compared to the enthusiasm of others.
success markers
It looks like Paul and his team proved better at fund raising than they thought they would. The Macedonians gave more than the team expected. So, now Paul tells the Corinthians that they should give as well — not because of the extremity of the need — but because giving is a success marker for missions. when the missions target choses to believe, chooses to speak its gospel testimony, and chooses to know the Lord and his word better, and, finally, chooses to give as an expression of Christ’s love — then you can count your mission work a success.
LORD, help us to succeed in everything, including giving to express your compassionate love.
