God's Abundance: A Call to Trust and Act
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
—Corinthians 9:8
We often talk about God’s abundance, but how often do we fully grasp the magnitude of what that means? God's abundance isn't just about providing for our needs—it's about lavishing us with His grace and resources in such a way that we overflow in good works. Today, let's dive deeper into this beautiful truth found in 2 Corinthians 9:8 and consider how it applies not only to our faith but also to practical aspects of life like support raising.
God's Abundant Nature
To understand abundance, we need to look at the very nature of God. Scripture tells us God is eternal, independent, and simple. Let’s unpack what these attributes reveal about His abundance.
Eternal: God existed before time began. He created everything out of nothing, and everything rests in Him. His resources are not limited by time or space. He is the source of all creation, and nothing escapes His reach or provision.
Independent: Unlike us, God doesn’t need anything to sustain Himself. He doesn’t rely on food, rest, or external help. This independence means He can fully give without ever being depleted. There is no limit to His giving—He doesn’t run out of grace, strength, or provision.
Simple: God is not divided. He doesn’t portion Himself out to different people in smaller doses. When we experience God’s presence and provision, we receive all of Him. He is fully with each of us, working powerfully in our lives.
When we say that God’s grace abounds, we are acknowledging that His whole being is committed to providing for us. He gives not just resources, but Himself—completely and joyfully.
Our Lack of Abundance
In contrast to God, we are finite. We rely on food, sleep, and many other needs to get through the day. We can only be in one place at one time, and we are often limited by our own fears and doubts. Unlike God, we can feel inadequate when it comes to our ability to provide for ourselves or others. This is especially true when it comes to support raising.
Many of us hesitate when it comes to calling on others for support. There are several reasons for this:
Fear of bothering others: We feel like we’re imposing on people’s time or resources.
Doubt in our mission: Sometimes we subconsciously believe that our work isn’t important enough to warrant asking for help.
Lack of trust in God’s provision: While we may profess that God is abundant, our actions sometimes reveal that we don’t fully believe it. We act as though resources are scarce and God’s provision is limited.
Connecting God's Abundance to Support Raising
The truth is, God’s abundance isn’t just a nice theological concept—it’s a reality that has direct implications for our daily lives. God, the ultimate cheerful giver, has already demonstrated His generosity by giving us His Son and sending the Holy Spirit to empower us. He has shown that He delights in providing for His creation.
When we approach support raising, we must remember that it’s not just about asking for financial help; it’s about inviting people to join in what God is already doing. Every good gift comes from God, and He has abundant resources to meet every need—whether financial, relational, or spiritual.
Three Key Reflections:
Reflecting on God’s abundance can motivate us: When we remember how much God has given us, we are freed from the fear of lack. We can boldly approach others, knowing that we are not dependent on human resources alone but on the unlimited resources of our heavenly Father.
Trusting in God’s abundant resources helps us invite others: If we truly believe that God has abundant resources, then we can confidently invite others to be part of what He’s doing. We’re not just asking for money or help—we’re giving them an opportunity to partner in God’s mission.
Daily reminders of God’s abundance: It’s important to actively remind ourselves each day of God’s abundance. Whether through prayer, scripture, or gratitude, cultivating a mindset of abundance helps us trust Him more fully.
A Call to Action
As you go into this week, take time to reflect on God’s abundance in your life. What is one practical step you can take each day to remind yourself of His limitless provision? Maybe it’s committing to prayer before making support-raising calls or spending time in scripture that speaks to His faithfulness. Whatever it is, trust that God is working behind the scenes, already preparing people’s hearts to join you in this journey.
Remember: God is the most cheerful giver of all, and He will provide not just for your mission but for every need you have. Trust in His abundance and move forward confidently, knowing that you are not alone in this work. God is with you, and His resources are endless.
Reflection Questions:
How can reflecting on God's abundance motivate us in support raising?
If we know God has abundant resources, what stops us from inviting everyone we know to be part of what God is already doing?
What is one thing you can do each day this week to remember God's abundance?
By embracing God’s abundant nature and reflecting on our dependence, we can move forward boldly, trusting that every good work we do will be supported by His infinite grace.