Faith, Finances, and Full Surrender: Answering God’s Call
In the heart of every believer lies a call to surrender, to align our lives with God’s mission. This act of submission encompasses every facet of life—our time, talents, and yes, our finances. But how do we cultivate a heart fully committed to God’s mission? Let’s explore this through biblical truths and practical steps.
The Heart of Surrender
In Acts 20:24, the Apostle Paul declares, “But I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.” Paul’s perspective is profound—he sees his life as secondary to the mission God has given him. For us, this means putting God first in every area of our lives, including our finances.
The act of surrender requires humility, as Paul demonstrates through his ministry in Ephesus (Acts 20:17-21). He endured trials, tears, and suffering, yet he remained steadfast in proclaiming repentance and faith. His example challenges us to ask: Are we living for God’s mission or our own ambitions?
The act of surrender requires humility, as Paul demonstrates through his ministry in Ephesus (Acts 20:17-21). He endured trials, tears, and suffering, yet he remained steadfast in proclaiming repentance and faith. His example challenges us to ask: Are we living for God’s mission or our own ambitions?
Why Giving Matters
Giving is not just about finances; it’s a reflection of discipleship. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). This principle flips worldly thinking on its head. Our natural inclination is to accumulate and hold tightly to resources. Yet, Scripture reminds us that when we give sacrificially, we align our hearts with God’s purposes.
In Malachi 3:10, God invites us to test Him with our tithes, promising blessings beyond measure. This act of trust not only supports God’s work but deepens our relationship with Him. Are you willing to step into this promise, trusting that 90% with God’s blessing is far greater than 100% without it?
In Malachi 3:10, God invites us to test Him with our tithes, promising blessings beyond measure. This act of trust not only supports God’s work but deepens our relationship with Him. Are you willing to step into this promise, trusting that 90% with God’s blessing is far greater than 100% without it?
Practical Steps to Surrender
1. Evaluate Your Priorities
Consider your financial habits. Does your giving reflect a heart surrendered to God? The Bible teaches that the first 10% of our income belongs to God. This act of tithing acknowledges Him as the provider of all we have. Beyond the tithe, consider offerings that reflect gratitude and a commitment to advancing God’s mission.
2. Give Consistently
Setting up recurring giving ensures that your commitment to God remains steady, even during busy seasons. This practice helps prioritize His mission over fluctuating emotions or circumstances.
3. Overcome Covetousness
Paul warns against coveting others’ possessions (Acts 20:33-34). It’s easy to compare ourselves to others or desire more of what we already have. Instead, cultivate contentment and recognize that earthly possessions are temporary. Ask yourself, “Am I investing in things that will last for eternity?”
4. Embrace Sacrificial Living
Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). This means laying down personal desires and comforts for the sake of His kingdom. True joy comes not from what we receive but from what we give. As Hebrews 12:2 reminds us, Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before Him. We, too, can find joy in sacrificial living.
5. Be Prepared for Opposition
Living a life fully surrendered to God may invite challenges. Paul faced persecution and hardship, yet he remained committed to proclaiming the gospel. As we give our lives and resources to God’s mission, we must anticipate spiritual attacks but find strength in the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Consider your financial habits. Does your giving reflect a heart surrendered to God? The Bible teaches that the first 10% of our income belongs to God. This act of tithing acknowledges Him as the provider of all we have. Beyond the tithe, consider offerings that reflect gratitude and a commitment to advancing God’s mission.
2. Give Consistently
Setting up recurring giving ensures that your commitment to God remains steady, even during busy seasons. This practice helps prioritize His mission over fluctuating emotions or circumstances.
3. Overcome Covetousness
Paul warns against coveting others’ possessions (Acts 20:33-34). It’s easy to compare ourselves to others or desire more of what we already have. Instead, cultivate contentment and recognize that earthly possessions are temporary. Ask yourself, “Am I investing in things that will last for eternity?”
4. Embrace Sacrificial Living
Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). This means laying down personal desires and comforts for the sake of His kingdom. True joy comes not from what we receive but from what we give. As Hebrews 12:2 reminds us, Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before Him. We, too, can find joy in sacrificial living.
5. Be Prepared for Opposition
Living a life fully surrendered to God may invite challenges. Paul faced persecution and hardship, yet he remained committed to proclaiming the gospel. As we give our lives and resources to God’s mission, we must anticipate spiritual attacks but find strength in the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
The Blessing of Surrender
When we fully surrender to God, we experience a transformation in our perspective. Giving becomes not a burden but a blessing, an opportunity to participate in God’s work. Paul’s life demonstrates this truth—he found joy in suffering for the gospel because it conformed him to the image of Christ.
A Call to Action
As you reflect on your own life, ask:
Let today be the day you take a step of faith. Test God’s promise, trust in His provision, and experience the unparalleled blessing of giving to His mission.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the privilege of participating in Your mission. Help us to surrender every area of our lives, including our finances, for Your glory. Convict us where we hold back and guide us to trust You fully. May our lives reflect Your grace and extend Your gospel to the world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
By living this out, we not only align ourselves with God’s will but also leave a legacy of faith for generations to come. Are you ready to take the next step in surrendering your life to His mission?
- Is God truly first in my finances?
- Does my giving reflect a heart surrendered to His mission?
- Am I willing to embrace the joy of sacrificial living?
Let today be the day you take a step of faith. Test God’s promise, trust in His provision, and experience the unparalleled blessing of giving to His mission.
Prayer
Father, we thank You for the privilege of participating in Your mission. Help us to surrender every area of our lives, including our finances, for Your glory. Convict us where we hold back and guide us to trust You fully. May our lives reflect Your grace and extend Your gospel to the world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
By living this out, we not only align ourselves with God’s will but also leave a legacy of faith for generations to come. Are you ready to take the next step in surrendering your life to His mission?
This blog is based on a message preached by Lead Pastor Dr. Brian Stone on Sunday, November 24, as part of the The Gift of Giving series. You can watch the full message here.
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