And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)
Have you ever noticed how easy it is to forget the lessons of lean seasons once abundance arrives? Like the Israelites who longed for Egypt's melons while eating heavenly manna, we too can lose perspective when comfort replaces struggle. Today, let's talk about something close to my heart – the responsibility that comes with blessing.
Remember those prayers you whispered during sleepless nights? The ones about making ends meet, about hoping for breakthrough? Now that God has answered, what comes next?
For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required. - Luke 12:48
This isn't just about financial prosperity. Perhaps you've received healing, a restored relationship, or a long-awaited opportunity. Each blessing carries a purpose bigger than personal comfort.
Think about your workplace – are there newer colleagues who could use a mentor? That promotion you received isn't just about a better title; it's a platform to lift others. Your experience through difficult times uniquely qualifies you to guide those walking similar paths.
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. - 1 Timothy 6:17-18
Remember the friend who brought meals when you were sick? The neighbor who watched your kids during that emergency? Now you're in a position to be that person for someone else. Your abundance – whether it's time, resources, or wisdom – is meant to flow, not stagnate.
Consider starting a blessing budget. Set aside a portion of your income specifically for supporting others. It might mean helping a single mom with school supplies, contributing to a friend's mission trip, or simply having extra groceries on hand for families in need.
They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future." - 1 Timothy 6:18-19
But stewardship goes beyond money. That hard-won wisdom from your valley seasons? Share it.
The professional skills you've developed? Teach them.
The peace you found in Christ during troubled times? Someone needs to hear that testimony.
Let's talk practical steps:
Start a gratitude journal. I titled mine Tracing the Hand of God's Faithfulness- a daily record of His faithfulness.
Look for edges in your community – people who might fall through society's cracks.
Create systems for generosity before lifestyle inflation sets in.
Share your story – both the struggles and the victories.
Mentor others walking paths you've already traveled.
Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. - Proverbs 3:9-10
The greatest test of character often comes not in hardship, but in prosperity. When we remember the desert lessons while standing in our promised land, we develop a beautiful kind of wisdom –one that keeps us both grateful and generous.
Your blessing has purpose. Your abundance has an assignment. Your prosperity has the potential to impact generations. Don't let the comfort of arrival make you forget the lessons of the journey.
As you stand in your Canaan today, remember – the same God who sustained you through scarcity now trusts you with plenty. Let's be good stewards of both the blessing and its purpose.
What step will you take today to ensure your blessing becomes a blessing to others?
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.- Proverbs 11:25
Comments