2 Corinthians 8:8-15 (CSB) I am not saying this as a command. Rather, by means of the diligence of others, I am testing the genuineness of your love. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ: Though he was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. 10 And in this matter I am giving advice because it is profitable for you, who began last year not only to do something but also to want to do it. 11 Now also finish the task, so that just as there was an eager desire, there may also be a completion, according to what you have. 12 For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. 13 It is not that there should be relief for others and hardship for you, but it is a question of equality. 14 At the present time your surplus is available for their need, so that their abundance may in turn meet your need, in order that there may be equality. 15 As it is written: The person who had much did not have too much, and the person who had little did not have too little.

What we love is revealed by where we choose to spend our time, our energy, and our money. There is an intimate and unbreakable connection between what you love and the way you give.

Question #1: Who is the greatest example of love?

The greatest example of love is Jesus. The eternally existent Son of God was born as a human baby, lived an ordinary life, and then died in the place of sinners. His death brought forgiveness, and His resurrection from the dead assures us of life forever with Him. The greatness of His love is seen in the greatness of His loving sacrifice for others.

Question #2: What good is loving intention without generous action?

We demonstrate our love not with eloquent speeches or grand statements about love, but by the way we sacrifice to give to those who need it. Our love is revealed not just by our attitude, but also by our actions.

Question #3: Why does God give you more than you need?

The reason God gives us more than we need is so we can invest those resources in lasting, kingdom work. Surplus is a God-given opportunity to love your neighbor as yourself.

When we demonstrate our love through willing and sacrificial giving, people see Jesus in us. They see and they feel His love for them through our acts of love.