Generations – Week 5
A Difference Making Life
1 Now I want you to know, dear brothers and sisters, what God in his kindness has done through the churches in Macedonia.
2 They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity.
3 For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. 4 They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believers in Jerusalem.
5 They even did more than we had hoped, for their first action was to give themselves to the Lord and to us, just as God wanted them to do.
6 So we have urged Titus, who encouraged your giving in the first place, to return to you and encourage you to finish this ministry of giving.
7 Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us —I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving. 2 Corinthians 8:1-7
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21
Making a difference requires:
- Faith
Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, 2 Corinthians 8:7
- Sacrifice
He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.2 Corinthians 5:15
Making a difference requires:
- Generosity
All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own.
Acts 4:32
- Urgency
So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Ephesians 5:15-16
For more info on the generations initiative go to www.graceriver.cc/generations