And as you Philippians know, at the beginning of my gospel ministry, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in this matter of giving and receiving except you alone. For even in Thessalonica on more than one occasion you sent something for my need. I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account. For I have received everything, and I have plenty. I have all I need because I received from Epaphroditus what you sent—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, very pleasing to God.
–Philippians 4:15-18 NET
Why were the gifts from the church in Philippi a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, very pleasing to God? Because with their gifts, they joined Paul in supporting his gospel ministry. Acts of generosity are the fuel that advances much of the work of the Gospel around the world!
To be clear, there are other acts of generosity that are valid and worthy of our resources. It is important to care for the poor (Galatians 2:10) and do good for all people, including our brothers and sisters in Christ (Galatians 6:10). But if you want to truly ignite hope through acts of generosity, then it must include the advancement of the only source of hope, Jesus Christ.
So be creative! Acts of generosity involve more than just money. Send a card to a Christian worker somewhere around the world. Better yet, go and visit that worker! Provide a place to stay or a car to drive when a worker comes to visit. Schedule a video call and spend an hour just listening to them share their lives. Or consider providing a way for their kids to do something fun.
God blessed Abraham so that through him all the nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3). It is no different today. Let’s join together in igniting hope around the world through acts of generosity!
ACTION: Who are some Christian workers you know? It might be someone who serves in your church, a missionary who lives on another continent, or even a believer in a persecuted country. Pray and ask God to show you ways where you can be generous to that worker so that the work of the Gospel can grow.
