2 Corinthians Chapter 8 Discussion Page 2

its a very touchy verse...it shows nd confirms tht the Lord really loves us

For I know that I will never be broke a single day of my life because Christ went broke for my sake, this knowledge automatically makes me to prosper and walk in wealth everyday of my life!!!

Verse 2 of this chapter really shows the love of the Macedonian Christians in action. They themselves were in deep poverty and undergoing tribulation, but they begged to be able to give to their fellow believers in the faith. It goes to show that even if we have a little we should always strive to show a generous attitude in giving to others. This doesn't always have to be money. It can be our time, our energy, or other resources. It reminds me of Galatians 6:10, which encourages us to "work good towards all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith."

Verse 2, It�s important for us to acknowledge that hardships, trials, tribulations and troubles are a necessary part of life. John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." In the world we will have tribulations and troubles -- sicknesses, family tragedies, out of work, financial difficulties, family problems, earthquakes, floods etc., business failure etc. It is a given, but Jesus says, "be of good cheer". He is saying that we must learn how to find joy in the midst of life's hardships, because He has overcome the world. James tells us to count all of this joy. James 1:2-4, My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. How many of us really take this verse seriously? The truth is, if we really desire the liberating power of God's Spirit and kingdom in our lives, we must find joy in life's hardships. Two reasons why we need to learn how to enjoy life's hardships. 1. The Storms of Life Help To Keep Us On Track With God. Psalms 119:67, Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word. There's a story of a woman who became the victim of amnesia. For three months she wandered, but during a severe thunderstorm she suddenly remembered who she was and where she was from. How often the storms of life bring us back to our senses! God sends them not to destroy us but to help us. Many people can look back and thank God for the storms that brought them back to Him! 2. Struggles And Hardships Sift Out The Impurities In Our Lives. Hebrews 12:27-28, Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. A Christian man lost his home and mill when a flood washed them away. He was brokenhearted and discouraged as he stood surveying his loss. Just then he saw a glittering object that had been uncovered by the waters. It was gold! The disaster he thought had made him a beggar had actually made him wealthy. So, the Lord often works through our troubles to strip away certain cherished possessions to show us the better treasures of His love and power. How thankful we should be that in every storm of affliction we have the assurance that the Lord has a good purpose in view! The more joy we are able to find in the midst of life's hardships the stronger and more secure we will be as individuals, who are now able to walk in victory and succeeding in the issues of life. Nehemiah 8:10 �...for this day is holy to our LORD. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.� It all boils down to the fact that hardships are a part of life and there is no way we can escape them in our lives. They serve a meaningful purpose.

@Risper, you are wrong because THE WORD says if we have food and raiment we are to be content!

I often thought this chapter was like motivational talk to give generously to Jerusalem, the mother church. If the Philippians, who are poor, can give generously, so could the wealthier Corinthian church, but better! It came across like a telethon.

Thank God that Jesus even though he was rich, for our sakes became poor, so that we through his poverty might become rich. God knows our spiritual condition, and has provided all things for us to be enjoyed in Christ Jesus the Lord. God wants us to be rich in faith. For faith is our victory over this world. Thank God for workers like Titus who helped the Apostle Paul with the Macedonian Church. As we serve one another in the body of Christ we share in the eternal riches that comes with being partners in the grace of God. Jesus told us not to lay up riches on earth where moth, and rust would corrupt. Rather we are to send our riches ahead of us to heaven where neither moth, rust, nor thieves break in and steal. Thank the Lord for his faithfulness.

It is not God's intent to make his followers wealthy. The prosperity doctrine is not found in the Bible. See Matthew 19:24 - it's very difficult for a rich man to even get to heaven. Wealth cannot become your God and it's extremely tempting to let it, that's why Jesus said that. People continually try to justify their love for riches, but the Bible is clear that money can easily distract you in your pursuit for heavenly things, not earthly wealth, power, and possessions that become irrelevant when you die.

It is the initial intend of God for every Believer to be rich and enjoy divine excellency