God’s Math
Are you living a generous life?
“And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity” (2 Corinthians 8:1, 2).
The people in my house love math. Complex mathematical equations are fun to them and provide enjoyable dinner conversation. Although, I don’t put myself in that category, I understand enough to balance my cheque book and figure out which item in the grocery store is the best deal.
Whatever your grasp on mathematical functions, most agree that two plus two is four and that if you don’t have any money you can’t pay the bills. However, in this passage from second Corinthians, Paul introduces us to the idea that God’s math doesn’t work the way ours does. He describes how the extremely poor and suffering believers in Macedonia gave an incredibly generous financial gift.
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How is that possible?
They must be using a different kind of math than is taught in school. Indeed, they were using God’s math: God’s grace + overflowing joy + extreme poverty = rich generosity.
You see, God’s grace is powerful. It can bring overwhelming joy in the midst of severe trial and rich generosity in the midst of extreme poverty. Paul wanted the Corinthians to understand the grace that God had given the Macedonian churches was available to them. That same grace is available to us.
God’s grace not only provides forgiveness of sins for those who believe, it brings joy regardless of circumstances. God’s grace assures believers of His favor, and enables them to trust Him.
The reason it was possible for poor people to give generously was because grace had taught them that God would supply everything they needed. That is God’s math.
Heavenly Father, I pray that Your grace would teach me to trust You, so that I will have overwhelming joy and be willing to share. Amen.
Questions: How have you experienced God’s math? What else does God’s grace teach us?
Tags: bills, Corinthians, extreme poverty, generosity, God, grace, Macedonia, Macedonian churches, mathematical equations, paul, Suzanne Benner
3 Responses to “God’s Math”
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What a great testimony Brenda! I see similarities in your response to those of King Nebuchadnezzar when he glorified God after his time of discipline. He said “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just.” (Daniel 4:37) We never have to second guess God’s motives or His ability to do what is right and best. And as you said, it becomes like a perpetual motion machine where we see God’s faithfulness which helps us to trust more which in turn means we see His faithfulness in greater ways. Of course we have an enemy that tries to put some friction in that machine, but as we keep our eyes on the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2) we are empowered by the Spirit to move past those attempts and continue to mature and grow in Him.
So how has the Holy Spirit led in your life to better lean on God and trust in His faithfulness? Has it been an easy process? Any hints for others who maybe struggling right now to trust in God’s math?
Suzanne,
This is so very true. I’ve had times in my life where I’ve gone through extreme poverty, yet found myself still able to give to others who were less fortunate than I. I think as long as we remember that whatever we’re going through, there’s ALWAYS someone who’s worse off, especially if they don’t have a relationship with the Lord, and we are able to give because He gives to us each and every day.
I love the way you explain God’s math. I so wish all math was this easy to grasp. :o) Thanks for this.
In Christ,
Jessica Martinez
Founder – God’s Chosen Princess
http://www.facebook.com/godschosenprincess
God’s grace has always been sufficient for me. I am seeing more and more the beauty of being able to lean on Him, and the greater the degree of my leaning, the greater the degree of the Lord’s generous giving! It does not matter whether I am relying on Him for material needs, mercy, loving-kindness, forgiveness, or extended patience with me when I am having a difficult time understanding my “Abba’s” ways. My God never fails in His love nor in His compassions, and I am infinitely grateful. Thank you so much for this beautiful devotional, Suzanne! I definitely love God’s math far more than the world’s equations!