The Whole ChurchSample

SUSTAINING OUR MISSION

Water flows down over rocks to streams, then to rivers, and ultimately into vast oceans. In a similar way, everything flows out of God’s provision for us. When the Father gives us abilities or other blessings, it’s not an accident, a product of our own hard work, or the result of good genes. Our God is a God who knows what He’s doing—and He specifically and intentionally gives each of us different gifts, at times just for the benefit of others.

If you have particular skills, strengths, or financial blessings, give Him thanks. The purpose of our gifts isn’t to make us feel better about ourselves or improve the way other people see us. God’s gifts are an opportunity for us to know Him better and participate in building His kingdom. Through them, and in obedience to Him, we fulfill His mission.

Have you ever tithed, volunteered at church, attended a Sunday service, or spent time in prayer? Of course I have, you’re probably thinking. But did you think of such activities as kingdom-building, mission-sustaining work?

It’s easy to accept these regular practices as essential to the formula of Christian life. You might even think they’re basic. But in those small acts, you’re actually doing something great: You’re demonstrating that you treasure everything God’s provided you. Through generous giving, service, and worship, you’re not simply being a good steward—you’re offering these gifts back to Him in love.

In every part of life, there are opportunities to demonstrate our love for God and our desire to glorify Him. Think about your daily habits and interactions, from the food you eat to the people you meet. What are you doing to show how important His glory is to you?

From the Old Testament to Jesus’ ministry on earth and into the life of the church today, we see evidence of God’s provision. And responsibly using and sharing His gifts involves looking ahead, preparing the way for future generations of the faithful. At the same time, God also wants us to focus on today: to love our neighbors, come alongside our communities, and answer His call to make disciples here and now. 

Both of these perspectives can feel urgent—we want to make a way for future generations while also living in a manner that shows we’re preparing ourselves, anticipating the Lord’s return. What does it mean to love the people around us as Jesus loves, while leaving a legacy for those who haven’t yet been born or reborn?

God offers His blessings of grace and peace to all who believe in Him. And we have an opportunity to reflect this in our own lives by joining God in His work. As we use His gifts to make disciples, we’re humbly inviting the world to experience His grace and peace for themselves.

Digging Deeper

• In your life, what does it look like to bring God glory by using the things He’s given you?
• Throughout Scripture, we’re called to responsibly care for the gifts we receive from God. As you read in 1 Peter 4:10, we’re instructed to use our gifts so we can be “good stewards of God’s varied grace.” What do you think that means in today’s culture?
• In what areas of your life are you offering God’s gifts back to Him? How?

Prayer

Father, You’ve blessed me in so many ways. Give me the awareness that everything I have is Yours. It’s through Your generous sacrifice that I have the opportunity to use these blessings to help build Your kingdom. Teach me to become more aware of the gifts I’ve received and discern how best to use them. I pray my efforts will be a reflection of Your wisdom, grace, and peace. Amen.