“We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.
“I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Paul was a passionate, pulsating example of one sold out to Christ. The Lord’s grace broke into and upturned the former rebel’s life and set it on a gospel trajectory. Paul was intent on spending every ounce of grace received to make the good news known so others could also be transformed for eternity.
The most crucial understanding of grace comes from Jesus, who freely gave Himself for our everlasting benefit. We receive heavenly riches at His expense for no merit of our own. When was the last time we thanked Him for His exquisite, undeserved, lavish expression of love? 
Comprehending the vastness of God’s grace to us in Christ sharpens our perception to recognize daily graces. His gifts are wide and many, seen by eyes that have beheld Him and savored by hearts touched by His mercy. How intent are we to behold and praise His grace? Whom are we telling about their beauties and transforming power? With whom can we share the effect Christ’s grace has on stubbornness, despair, broken relationships?
What generosity from the Lord through others have we recently observed? Are we aware of our pastors’ investment of time and prayer? Do we recognize and acknowledge the contributions of others to our practical livelihood and spiritual wellbeing? How and how often do we express gratitude to them, and the Sovereign Source from whom all blessings flow? How have we been inspired to extend grace forward?
If we struggle to want to be gracious, due to personal selfishness or another’s wanton lack of desert, would we admit that and ask God for the desire? Where has the Lord prompted us to extend a grace, by word, service, forgiveness, donation? What impulse to do or give has not been completed? Why not? When will we follow through? (2 Corinthians 8:10-12,16)
How will we endeavor to know grace better? How might our expression of generous grace awaken faith and delight in others to give? How might it multiply praise to God as He delights in His people? (2 Corinthians 9;6-12)
Lord God, may I sow Your love and grace generously, to the reaping of Your glory and praise.
As the rain and snow 