Excellent Giving - day 39

2 Corinthians 8:7
But, just as you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us – see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

If we were asked what we would like to improve in our Christian walk, we would likely say things like knowing the Word better, loving our neighbor, being more faithful in our lives, knowing how to talk about our faith more effectively, etc. But, the word of God adds one that might not be as high on the list in our minds: God wants us to grow in our generosity.

In Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians Chapter 8, he encourages them to excel. He says you excel in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love. These are all huge things, aren’t they? Then, he adds this: “See that you also excel in this grace of giving.” He says, right along with all these big Christian virtues like love, faith and knowledge that we need to be pursuing this grace of giving. And that’s not just pursuing on the side; but excelling.

What do you think of when you think of someone excelling? For me, I think of people like the athletes in the Olympics. Those people excel. They spend more time training in one month than I do in a year. They have dedicated their lives to their sport. And when they get to that stage in the Olympics, they have proven themselves to be among the very best in the world.

In a way far more important than an Olympic event, God has stated for each of us to excel in our generosity. In whatever ways we have been gifted to be generous, whether with our time, our talents, or our treasure, God wants excellence in how we give those away. Don’t be mistaken; God doesn’t love you better because you give generously. But, because God has loved us so much, we can now go forth and live generously.

Today’s Generosity Challenge:
How have you been inspired to live more generously? What are your plans? Write them down below.

About Michael Stickler

Mike is an author, radio host, and a highly sought after motivational speaker. His best-selling book, A Journey to Generosity, is widely acclaimed throughout the Christian community. He is the publisher of Generous Living Magazine and writes for the Christian Post, 'A Generous Life' column.