Saturday 17 August 2024

Psalm 38:9-22

Background
Most of the time Paul tried to be self-supporting when he engaged in his missionary work. He worked as a tentmaker. He told the Thessalonians: "We worked night and day, that we might not burden any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God."(1 Thessalonians 2:9) And he told the Corinthians that he worked so he could "make the gospel free of charge." (1 Corinthians 9:18)

As far as we know, Paul only accepted gifts from one group of Christians and that was the Philippians. By accepting their support he was able to devote less time to tent-making and more time to undertaking missionary work to new areas in Macedonia. In Acts 18:5 we read that Paul "was occupied with proclaiming the word, testifying to the Jews that the Messiah was Jesus."

Paul is keen for the Philippians to know that he values their generosity not because he was desperate for their aid, but because it reflects their kindness and brings them credit in the eyes of God. It is just as potent as any burnt offering or animal sacrifice offered to win God’s approval and blessing.

It has been said that this passage presents generosity not as an economic issue but as a 'heart issue'. The Philippians gave more than what they could easily afford and they did so willingly and without even being asked. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 Paul wrote: "The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not regretfully or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

John Wesley encouraged people to give generously but he also said donating money was not a replacement for practical engagement with those in need: "How much better is it, when it can be done, to carry relief to the poor rather than send it! …It is far more apt to soften our hearts and makes us naturally care for each other."

To Ponder:

• What reasons lie behind your willingness to donate money to a cause? Do you find it easy or difficult to be generous? Does giving bring you joy?
• What do you think are the benefits to you of donating to a cause? Do you see it as a way of serving God? Are there any ways in which God is prompting you to grow in generosity this week?
• The Philippians sent a person and not just money to help Paul. How important is it to engage in practical as well as monetary help?

Prayer
Father, there is nothing I have that has not come from your hand. Help me to respond to the generosity with which you have blessed my life. Lord, remake me in your image so I recognise the importance of generosity, humility and servanthood. Empower me to serve the needs of others, not out of duty, but in joy and faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Bible notes author: Gary Best
Gary was Headmaster of Kingswood School from 1987 to 2008 and Volunteer Warden of the New Room in Bristol from 2009 to 2019. He has published over 20 books, including A Christian Alphabet, a study book for home groups.