Denise Linton
Today's Scripture: “Well done my good and faithful servant!” said his master. “You have been faithful in managing small amounts so I will put you in charge of large amounts. Come on in and share my happiness!” Matthew 25:21, 23, GNT
Theme: It doesn’t matter if you have more or less; if you use what you have—no matter where you are—it is enough.
GENEROSITY OF OTHERS
Through the Gospels, we read of Jesus and His disciples traveling for three years to preach, heal, and share the Good News of the Kingdom of God. Have you ever wondered how they were able to fund this ministry? None of them worked a career; they left their fishing nets and jobs to follow Jesus. Luke 8:1-3 tells us that there were also three women: Mary Magdalene, Johanna and Susanna. And there were many others who provided for Jesus’ ministry out of their own means. Their generosity made an eternal difference.
GOD PROVIDES FOR PEOPLE THROUGH PEOPLE
The Gospels report two occasions where Jesus miraculously provided food for 5000 people and 4000 people respectively. He probably could have continued to miraculously provide for His followers and Himself throughout the three years, but that was not God’s plan. That would have removed the opportunity and necessity for others to be part of His ministry. God wants to provide for people through people. God created us to glorify Him and to do His works (Ephesians 2:10). In one of those instances, God used a young boy with only two fish and five loaves of bread.
IT TAKES MY CONTRIBUTION
The ministries of The Cove Church are possible because of the generosity of each person who gives their time, money, talents. and abilities. Every ministry and serving team, from Cove Kids, Cove Students, Global Outreach, Celebrate Recovery, Christmas Toy Store, to Benevolence, all are ministries that impact others and will grow the Kingdom of God. Just like Mary, Joanna, and Susanna had the opportunity to be part of Jesus’ ministry 2000 years ago, you have that same opportunity now. It doesn’t matter if it is more or less than others; if you use what you have, it is enough.
Make it Personal: What eternity-impacting ministries is God calling you to support with your resources? If you are not yet using your resources, ask God in what part of His ministry He wants to use you. Easter Sunday is just around the corner. This is a great time to introduce and welcome those that don’t usually attend a service. There are many areas where you can take that first step in growing the Kingdom of God.
Pray: Father, I want to be a good and faithful servant. Thank You for the talents, resources, and gifts You have given me. I ask that You lead me to the people and ministries where You want me, so that I can share my gifts and talents with others. You gave me these gifts, not to keep them for myself, but to share with others so that I, too, can be part of Your ministry, growing Your eternal Kingdom.
Read: Ephesians 2:10; Mark 6:41; Luke 8:1-3