GRACE AMBASSADORS
MINISTRY UPDATE

Be a Giver, Not a Taker

The Lord said it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).

Our flesh chuckles at this pious platitude. Sin deceives us into thinking that the biggest blessings come from filling our bellies, bank accounts, and bags with more stuff for ourself.

However, the Lord is describing grace, which is at the heart of Christianity.

It is why God gave the earth, the garden, and a wife to Adam in six days: that the 7th day would be blessed in all God gave him (Gen 2:3).

It is why God gave the law to Israel: it was for their profit, not for God to receive a million sacrifices.

It is why God gave his only begotten Son (John 3:16): to save the world, not gain the world.

It is why Christ died for our sins (Rom 5:8): to graciously provide salvation for us.

It is why God gives us freely all things with Christ (Rom 8:32), instead of requiring all things of us (which is his right).

It is why God created marriage, children, families, and neighbors: to give us opportunity to give generously.

A godly life in Christ is not selfish. A blessed life is a life of contribution, provision, and cheerful giving.

If you want to live a blessed life then learn the blessing of God’s free gift to you (Rom 5:15-18).

Then, learn how to give yourself.

If you have nothing to give, give thanks (1 Thess 5:18).

Life is in the giving, not in the taking.

“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” – 2 Cor 9:15

For His glory,

Justin Curtis Johnson