How does giving start? For some it is a guilt-ridden response to an appeal or repeated appeals. For others, it is a way to look good to other people (Mark 12:41-44). But if giving does not start with love, it is eternally meaningless (1 Corinthians 13:3). In one way, it is easy for a mother to give to her child or a father to his son; but what about giving to those with whom you do not have a family or emotional bond?

The believers in Macedonia were very poor but they pleaded with Paul and his team that they might be allowed to give towards meeting the needs of other believers whom they had never met (2 Corinthians 8:3-4). What was their motivation? It was not a personal connection, nor was it obedience to Paul - because he had not asked them to contribute. It started with a deep gratitude to God for His grace to them (2 Corinthians 8:1). It then continued in prayer: 'they gave themselves first to the Lord'.

These believers had clearly been prompted by the Holy Spirit to consider giving money to people in more need than them. It led to a serious conversation with the Lord. This was not just individuals praying, but the church gathered to ask the Lord what He wanted them to do. They then believed that they should ask the apostolic team if they would receive their gifts, and showed such a warmth of practical giving toward the team (2 Corinthians 11:9) that they marked themselves out as God-motivated givers (Philippians 4:15).

Does God want you to give? Yes. Who does He want you to give to, how much and when? Ask Him! And dare to be accountable to others by praying together about how to serve Him and meet the needs of His kingdom. Then be willing to submit to those who have spiritual authority over you (wise leaders who do not ask for money for themselves but are also sacrificial givers, trusting the Lord for their own needs without begging). Generous giving flows from grateful, submissive and compassionate hearts prompted by God's grace, prayer and servant-heartedness. Today is a good time to start that process, or if you have started, to take the necessary action (2 Corinthians 8:11).