In 2 Cor 8:1-7, the apostle Paul, touched by the generosity of fellow Christians in Macedonia, encourages the church at Corinth to follow in their example of enthusiasm, joining in the support and expansion of the gospel through their offerings. In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul continues his exhortation of how God will use their gifts to meet the growing needs and, while doing so, bring their hearts to an overflow of thanksgiving. God pours out His mercy to us so that we may overflow in ministry to others as a testimony of His goodness.