Session 6
Participating in God’s Purpose
From Rich Toward God
Think back to when you were a kid. Didn’t it feel fun to be chosen for something? Maybe it was a kickball team at recess, admission to your school’s honor society, or the leading role in a play. No matter what it was, it felt really good to belong and to work for something alongside others.
As Christians, we get the same opportunity to belong as we work together—and it’s on a much bigger scale than anything you remember from childhood. As we follow Jesus, God invites us to participate in His kingdom work across the street and around the world. We do this by praying, by serving, and by giving. Our generosity is a pathway toward participation in the purposes of God. Can you imagine a better invitation?
As we give, we become part of something bigger than ourselves or our own efforts. And our generosity has a tidal wave of effects—it glorifies God, it builds His church, it shines as a light to the world, and it brings us joy! In the process of giving, God matures us, giving us a new perspective. No longer do we feel the need to hold our money, time, or resources with clenched fists. Instead, we can give freely, whether we have a little or a lot, knowing that our obedience fuels Great Commission work.
Just like we saw in today’s reading about the Macedonian church, they gave even out of their poverty, and they had great joy knowing that they were the church ministering to other churches. When we choose to be generous, we reflect God’s generosity towards us to everyone around us. Truly, there is no greater privilege than joining in God’s work in the world!
REFLECT
- Have you considered how to partner with God’s mission through the local church?
- How does our generosity reflect God’s generosity?
- How can generosity propel us deeper in our relationship with God?