AS WE GIVE, SO GOD GIVES TO US.
(Matthew 6:19 & 20; Philippians 4:14-20)
There is a cycle of generosity. First, God gives to us and this leads us to give in response. But Scripture also shows that God responds to our giving – that we are blessed by it. We
need to be careful to avoid the ʻprosperity gospelʼ that suggests that this blessing will be earthly wealth, but equally we should not miss the point altogether. As we give, we receive – in the joy in the act of giving, and in receiving Godʼs blessings thereafter – in heaven (Matthew 6) and in His provision for our earthly needs (Philippians 4). And in this, we see again the overflowing generosity of God.
REFLECT: Spend a moment reflecting on your own giving thinking about where you currently give – money, yes, but also time, or hospitality, or by using skills and talents God has given to you.
AS WE GIVE, WE GROW
(Matthew 25:14-30)
The Parable of the Talents has much to say, but today, let us simply focus on two points: That those who have been entrusted by the Master will one day be held to account, and second, the slightly surprising statement in verse 29, that everyone who has will be given more. The underlying truth is that as we invest time and energy in seeking to follow Christ, so we grow – in faith, in a greater perception of Godʼs blessings to us, and in a greater understanding of what we can do to serve Jesus both in and through the local church.
REFLECT: Recalling back the areas of your giving, consider what the next step in your growth as a disciple of Jesus might be.
GIVING TO GOD RESPONDS TO WHAT WE HAVE RECEIVED
(1 Chronicles 29:1-20)
King David is known for many things, but one of his final acts is to give to the building of the Temple. He does so from the wealth of his office, and from his own personal wealth. The prayer in verses 10 to 13 is well known to us, but it is helpful to see it in its original context. One of the worldʼs most powerful and wealthy kings ecognizes that all of his wealth and power is given to him by God, and that his giving back to God is in response to Godʼs prior generosity. The challenge of this passage is not so much to reflect on what we give, but on our motives for doing so – do we give out of thankfulness?
REFLECT: Pause and reflect on the blessings that you have received. Give thanks to God for His generosity – for the daily blessings of good and shelter, for the blessings of loving human relationships.