The Holy Spirit Shifts the Question
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. (2 Corinthians 8:1-4)
Paul emphasized three churches in Macedonia: Thessalonica, Philippi, and Berea, as examples of radical, sacrificial giving. The believers in these churches were not wealthy; in fact, they faced a severe financial crisis in the region. Yet, when the grace of God came upon them, they joyfully gave beyond their means. The Holy Spirit, known as the Spirit of Grace, moved within these churches and shifted their perspective. Rather than fixating on their scarcity, they recognized the needs of others and responded with generosity. When God's power was amplified, their circumstances no longer dictated their generosity; instead, the Holy Spirit did.
One of the greatest barriers to generosity is the attitude of possessiveness. The world teaches us to hoard what we have before considering helping others. However, the Macedonian believers broke free from that mindset. They had compassionate eyes and recognized the suffering of their brothers and sisters in Jerusalem. Their willingness to give was so strong that they begged Paul to accept their offering. When we operate in the flow of the Spirit rather than following fear, we seek opportunities to be used by God instead of waiting for others to bless us. The Holy Spirit empowers us to see our resources not as something to hoard but rather as something to steward. Being led by the Holy Spirit shifts our question from "What do I need?" to "How can I be a blessing?”
Practical Application
Generosity isn’t about wealth; it’s about willingness. The Macedonians didn’t give because they had excess; they gave in faith. Instead of worrying about tomorrow, trust that God will provide as you obey Him. Ask God to help you view giving as an opportunity, not an obligation, and act on what the Holy Spirit prompts you to do this week.