First gave themselves to the Lord 2 Corinthians 8:1-6: Paul made known to these brethren that he considered both the opportunity to give and their willingness to give to be of the grace of God. Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea were very poor church yet they practiced great liberality. They were very poor and facing difficult times, yet they were glad to give generously. The Macedonians begged Paul for the privilege of giving. He did not beg them for money. Observe their joy at being given the privilege of giving to help the needy.

The Macedonian Christians did not have much to give, but they did have a very generous spirit. They gave far beyond what Paul was hoping for. They gave what they could afford and even more and they did this willing of themselves. Paul said they, "first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God." They first trusted God and also trusted Paul and his companions. The Corinthians had likewise promised to give. Now Paul urged Titus to collect the gifts they had promised.

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