It has been established in previous articles under this series that missions play a vital role in spreading the message of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth, and that the call extends to every believer. This article explores ‘giving’ as a way of partnering with missions.
Giving simply means the free transfer of possession or value to someone else, and partnering with missions through giving simply means ‘giving to missions.’
It is true that God will always provide. Definitely, God’s work will never lack supply; however, God uses men. He has called us to partner with him. The Scripture sets a precedence for this. Examples in the Old Testament include Abraham hosting angels, Israelites bringing their substance for God’s work (Building of the tabernacle), Rahab hosting the spies, the widow of Zarephath feeding Elijah, and the list goes on and on. Women like Joanna, wife of Chuza, Susanna, and Mary Magdalene ministered of their substance to Jesus (Luke 8:3). The Philippians church also supported Paul with his mission work. The book of Romans chapter 16 also gives an account of Paul’s personal greetings to people, some of whom he described as his ‘helpers in Christ.’
What can I give? One may ask, what can I give?
Money: Money is one of the major needs on the field. A lot of logistics go into the numerous testimonies of souls won and people being healed on the field. Missionaries need provision for transportation (some of which include pricey air tickets), feeding, lodging, etc. In fact, some of these funds go into ministering to the physical needs of the people they’ve been called to on the field. Sometimes they have to build schools, hospitals, etc. Finance is needed for all these.
Resources: Apart from money, we can also give our resources. Time, skills, materials, etc., are all resources we can give towards missions. You can give your time by interceding as learned earlier or even educating others about missions! Do you have a skill that can be of great benefit, e.g., writing, social media management, video editing, etc.? You can volunteer to help! Do you have clothing, furniture, etc., that you feel you no longer need and are still in good condition? You can look for a mission outfit that donates these during their trips. What is in your hand that you can give? I personally believe that everyone has something to give!
The reward of giving
The truth is we can never out-give God! The Bible tells us to give because when we do, we receive back in good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and overflowing. We lay up treasures in heaven for ourselves where neither moth nor rust can corrupt. Moreover, through our giving, heaven rejoices because souls are won!! Imagine getting to heaven and seeing souls that came to Christ because of your giving!
What joy!!!
May the Lord give us more understanding in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by Sis Oluwaseun Ogundare (Team Watchmen)