8 I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. (2 Corinthians 8:8–9, NKJV)
In urging the Corinthian church to complete their commitment to send benevolent relief to their needy brethren in Jerusalem, the apostle used the example of the diligent disciples in Macedonia to prompt their action (2 Cor. 8:1-7). The Macedonians were themselves following the great example of Jesus Christ, who emptied Himself of heaven’s glory so that we may be spiritual rich (Phil. 2:5-8). Sincere love, by definition, sacrifices itself for the benefit and well being of others. Do not merely tell someone you love them. The test of love is putting aside your own comfort, pleasure and profit in order to promote blessings and spiritual advantages in the lives of those for whom we profess love. “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and truth” (1 Jno. 3:18).
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