Thought for the Day – May 10, 2011
Philippians 4:14-17
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. NIV
Money. Gifts. Tithing. Missionaries. For some of you, just reading those words gives an impulse to click off the email. Paul was a missionary who could support himself, if needed. He did not go around requiring support. The Philippians sent gifts because they desired to SHARE in his ministry. They could not all go and do what Paul was doing. They could all support what he was doing. Paul is writing from Rome under house arrest. He could not work to meet his needs. He was dependent upon others to come and care for him.
Paul brought the gospel to Philippi. These people were part of God’s family because of his efforts. They were grateful. They wanted to say, “Thank You.” They did not give under compulsion or guilt. They loved Paul. They wanted to care for him. They could extend their ministry through him. Supporting others is a vital and critical piece to spreading the gospel. If you are like me, you get bombarded with many requests. This is how I decide. First, I look at the heart. Does the person have a heart for God? Second, I look at the organization. Does the organization use funds wisely? Is there fruit? Third, I look at my budget. Can I expand my budget and trust God to provide? Will I need to trim back from others who currently receive gifts? Is there another area of lifestyle that God wishes for me to modify or eliminate?
Supporting others bringing the gospel to unreached people groups in a privilege. May we give wisely and cheerfully to see the gospel proclaimed to the nations.
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