3For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. 4They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believersb in Jerusalem. 5They 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.
Father, I have lately only been giving what I can afford. Not just of my money, but of my time and energies and talent. Once I gave so much more even though it was less in the world’s eyes. Father, open my eyes to what You really want me to give. Show me my poverty, but give me a heart that just wants to serve others. Help me to give more than I think I can so that I must depend on You. But Father, don’t let me give to get attention. No Father, help me to give myself to You first. Help me to die completely to this world of “stuff” and be a true giver. *2Corinthians8*
