Joy — Philippians 4 – Friday
TODAY’S VERSE
Philippians 4:17
Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. (ESV)
I love when people ask me if I have ever met anyone famous, because my response is not usually what people expect: Jimmy Carter. Just for a refresher, Jimmy Carter was the 39th President of the United States, he earned a Nobel Peace Prize, and he lived to be 100 years old. Despite these remarkable feats, he consistently emphasized that his greatest legacy was being able to give to and serve the underprivileged through organizations like Habitat for Humanity.
I grew up in McCarr, KY, which is only known for its deep ties to the Hatfield/McCoy feud. This was not a prime real estate town; however, Mr. Carter saw things differently.
When I was 10 years old, we got the news that my family had been approved for a Habitat for Humanity house. In order to help “pay” for this house, we had to put in what is known as sweat equity, which refers to helping build other Habitat houses. Jimmy Carter and his wife showed up randomly one day, but not to do a press conference or boss people around. He showed up because he heard there were people in need of stable housing, and he wanted to give of his resources and his time.
When we think about giving, we often focus on the person receiving the gift. We imagine how our generosity might help someone in need or support a ministry. But in Philippians 4, Paul reveals another side of generosity: God uses giving to bless the giver. This is why Mr. Carter served until he physically couldn't anymore.
Generosity grows our faith. It loosens our grip on possessions and reminds us that everything we have comes from God. It teaches us to trust Him as our provider. Most importantly, it allows us to participate in God's work and experience joy.
The world tells us that joy comes from getting more. God's Word teaches that joy often comes from giving more. There is a unique satisfaction that comes from knowing God used your time, resources, or finances to make a difference in someone's life. As Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”
APPLICATION
This week, look for one opportunity to be intentionally generous. Your gift doesn't have to be large: think things like paying for someone's coffee, volunteering your time, or writing an encouraging note. Visit southland.church/give to figure out what’s best for you.
PRAYER
Father, thank You for the countless ways You provide for me. Everything I have is a gift from You. Help me to live with open hands and a generous heart. Show me opportunities to bless others with my time and resources. Teach me to find joy not in what I can gain, but in what I can give for Your glory. In Jesus' name, amen.