I am always sent to self-reflection when I read Paul’s praise of the Macedonian churches in II Corinthians 8. Paul was seeking to raise funds for the relief of the poor Christians in Jerusalem
during a time of difficulty for the Mother Church of the Christian movement. Paul praises those Macedonians “for during a severe ordeal of affliction, their abundant joy and extreme poverty
have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part” (II Cor. 8:2).

The juxtaposition of “abundant joy” and “extreme poverty” is difficult to fathom for most of us. I am blessed not to have experienced poverty. There have been times I have fretted over how to
pay all the bills, but I’ve never missed a meal because I couldn’t afford it. I’ve not yet slept in the cold because I couldn’t afford a roof over my head. I don’t know extreme poverty.

Nevertheless, I have occasionally worried about having “enough,” especially when I was younger and responsible for my children’s well-being, education, and health. I was fortunate,
however, that my parents instilled in me the notion that tithing for the work of God in the church was a first attention action.

I have never had a tither complain that generosity cost them anything of significance. I have found that “first fruits” giving actually helps me handle my finances more effectively and deal with my resources more wisely. While I don’t believe that generosity protects me from hardship or even financial struggles, I nevertheless feel that regularly giving a portion of what I receive when it first comes to me has helped me be a better manager of my money.

At one of the churches I pastored, we helped a man who was in desperate need. A few months after that, I received a letter from him with a check enclosed, saying that he had a job and was
grateful for the church’s help. For many months after that he sent the church a check so we could help others. His gratitude led to his generosity.

That is the real motive for faithful giving: a gratitude that impels us to pass on the blessings we have received. When we truly feel the abundance of God’s gifts to us, we can recognize that
our giving is less an obligation and more a joy (James 1:17-18). Paul said the Macedonians found joy even in poverty that led them to be generous. John Wesley, the Founder of the Methodist movement, suggested that Methodists should give away the first 10% of their income, save 10%, and live on 80%. For those of us that’s still a pretty good plan, especially when we remember that the giving part is the first part of our financial life.

Serving Christ, serving you,


The Reverend Dr. David Comperry,
Field Staff Representative