Here we are nearing the end of the “Season of Lent” where our focus has been, discovering what living life through the lens of Joy looks like. To date in this series, we have considered: “Joyful Prayer, Joyful Witness, Joyful Humility, Joyful Hospitality and Joyful Asceticism.” This brings us to the final theme, “Joyful Giving.” For most of us, the adjective “Joyful” wouldn’t be one that we would put beside the word “Giving,” even if we wanted to. For most, life and the challenges that go with it, specifically the financial ones, pull us away from any form of giving. In our look at the last chapter of Philippians, Paul highlights for us that “Joyful Giving” flourishes when we pursue contentment in Christ. Philippians 4:10-13 (NLT) 10 How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. 11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Today we consider that as we cultivate this godly contentment, it motivates us to practice extravagant generosity and leads us to trust fully in God’s provision, allowing us to rest in God’s Grace.
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