Devotions based on week 12 of Joy in the Journey: Generosity (WATCH HERE)
Philippians 4:17 Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account.
When Paul wrote to the Ephesians in chapter 2:10, he indicates that our purpose is wrapped up in doing the good works which God planned in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
What are those good works God has prepared for you?
Maybe we more naturally think about the acts of service we do. Helping a relative with a project they can’t do on their own. Feeding those that are hungry. Serving in the kids’ ministry.
But how many times do we think of our bank account as something God prepared for us in advance for us to perform an act of faith? Do we even think about our financial giving to the Lord through the local church as a fruit of faith?
Maybe one of our reactions to encouragements for financial generosity is one of resistance. We may even think that “the church has no business talking about my money.” Or we may think of it as an obligation for us to do so we check the box of being a good Christian.
Paul wrote to the Corinthians, But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving (2 Corinthians 8:7).
Growing in faith…is that a good work? Yes!
Speaking the truth in love…result of faith? Yes!
Growing in the knowledge of the word…evidence of our relationship with Jesus? Absolutely!
Loving others…no doubt a result of the love of Jesus at work in your heart.
Giving?
Excel in it!
Do it well!
Do it often!
Do it generously!
It is a fruit of faith. One may even say a “necessity” of faith. Faith WANTS to give. It is the natural response to the generosity that has been shown to you!
By responding to Paul’s need, Paul was noticing the growing and active faith of the Philippians. They wanted to help. They did. Paul knows this is a win for the Gospel at work in their hearts. He knew this was one of many good works God prepared in advance for them to take advantage of.
So how do we excel in the grace of giving?
Two things.
First, keep growing in your relationship to the Lord Jesus and your love for him.
Second, look at your paycheck, your bank accounts, your investments that God has “prepared in advance” of your good work of giving.
The opportunity is there. Gospel ministry takes resources, just like Paul’s did.
So enjoy following through on the good work of generosity God has prepared in advance for you to do!
Apply: Open your bank account, paycheck and investments. Take time to thank God for preparing these accounts for you. Now ask him to guide you in the good work of generosity he has prepared these accounts for.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the material blessings you have given to me. Let me see them as the way you are preparing opportunities for my faith to show the good work of generosity. AMEN.