In gratitude we imitate Him

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God is the ultimate giver, and in gratitude, we’re to imitate Him. Becoming a generous person begins with biblical thinking. Instead of focusing on how much we can keep, it’s better to think in terms of how much we can give away and share with others and the church. God has promised to supply our needs (Philippians 4:19) but often lavishes far more than the basics. And He delights to see His children joyfully sharing what He has given (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). As He provides us with material wealth and possessions, we become channels through whom He blesses others and carries out His work on earth.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, June 7 and 8, 2022.

Real wealth

Unlike Anything of This World

At the individual level this peace, unknown to the unsaved, secures composure in difficult trouble and dissolves fear (Philippians 4:7).

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for John 14:27.

All That We Need

For the law was given through Moses,

but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

John 1:17

Walk worthy

To ‘walk worthy’ is a key New Testament concept which calls the believer to live in a way that is consistent with his identification with the Lord who saved him.  Being ‘fruitful in every good work’ refers to spiritual fruit, which is the byproduct of a righteous life.  The Bible identifies spiritual fruit as leading people to Christ (1 Cor. 16:15), praising God (Heb. 13:15), giving money (Rom. 15:26-28), living a godly life (Heb. 12:11), and displaying holy attitudes (Gal. 5:22,23).  Increasing in the knowledge of God – spiritual growth cannot occur apart from this knowledge (1 Pet. 2:2; 2 Pet. 3:18).  The evidences of spiritual growth include a deeper love for God’s Word (Ps. 119:97), a more perfect obedience (1 John 2:3-5), a strong doctrinal foundation (1 John 2:12-14), an expanding faith (2 Thess. 1:3), and a greater love for others (Phil. 1:9).

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Colossians 1:10.

Withheld

-On the broad road-

 A false gift-a gift promised, but not given.  Like waiting for much needed rain in a parched land.  Seeing the cloud, and finally knowing the needed rain will come.  But the cloud disappears, without producing anything, when it seemed so sure.

Our leaders, or politicians, do this as common practice-making promises and then not following through.  Don’t put your hope there, in man.  There is only One who is worthy of your trust and your praise-God alone.