The question of giving is a question of the heart. How does the Spirit of God direct the desires of your heart toward the Mission of God? How is the Word of God informing your faithfulness in the stewardship of your life and resources? How is your fellowship with believers increasing your awareness of the gospel needs of the world? Who in your circle of relationships is taking the gospel to the nations? How does your view and anticipation of eternity increase your generosity in the advance of the gospel?
There is much to say about giving to missions, but let's focus on one passage of Scripture. In the context of standing side by side for the sake of the gospel with the Philippian Church, Paul is content in God's faithfulness and provision for his mission. Yet, he focuses his kindness toward those who are a vital part of his work through their generosity: “Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen” (Philippians 4:14-20).
Take note of five things that Paul identifies in this text that are significant in the context of God taking care of His global workers through the generosity of partnering believers. First, in the matter of giving and receiving, Paul says they have entered into a partnership. The partnership is more than just giving! It is participating in the mission. Second, something is more important than receiving a gift. It is the reality that the fruit of Paul's ministry increases to the credit of the giver. This truth is the blessing of God granting the generous giver the same honor for the results of the work in which the missionary engages. This reality is a true partnership! Third, the provision for the missionary is first and foremost an offering to God, which is a fragrant sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God! God delights in your giving to missions! Fourth, don't miss that just as God provides for the missionary through your giving, He also promises to supply for all the giver's needs out of His unlimited riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Fifth and finally, giving is an act of genuine worship to God for His eternal glory! May your heart respond in authentic worship demonstrated by faithful and sacrificial giving to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ to the nations.
Author: Bill Abitz