Why Raise Financial Support: Part 3

#3: Because it is an opportunity to give

Maybe you don’t think of giving as an opportunity, but Scripture is clear that it is. Paul says in Philippians 4:15–17, “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.” What Paul is saying is that it isn’t so much about providing for his needs that he wants the Philippians to give, but in reality it is about them. They benefit from giving. Paul goes on to say that their gifts are “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (4:18–19). The Philippians gifts to support Paul in his ministry are actually gifts directly to God himself, and God the ultimate giver will not be outdone in generosity. He gives back lavishly to those who give to Him. That doesn’t always mean material wealth for those who give, but it does mean assurance of God’s constant care and provision, because you’re investing your wealth in something far more significant and far more eternal.

There are many good things to give to, and we believe that starting new communities of believers among the French is one of them. If we didn’t believe that, we wouldn’t want to do it. Whatever ministries you support, see them as opportunities to give.

I think 2 Corinthians 9:6–11 sums it up well:

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:

‘They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;

their righteousness endures forever.’

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”