The Cross of Christ means Life

Proverbs 17:23-28 Seeking God's Way and Wisdom

In our text we see again the extremity between God's perspective and man's. Everything we have learned and been taught indicates that only as we keep for ourselves will we build a sufficient stock of "stuff" to get through life. This applies to everything from a savings account to our energy.

But that is NOT God's way. He delights to confound the wisdom and ways of man. It gives Him great joy to do a miracle for His people who are willing to sacrifice to provide for the needs of others, even at their own harm.

Margie and I have seen the truth stated in Proverbs 11:25,"A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" (c.f. Proverbs 22:9 ). In the New Testament we are told; "What a man sows, that also shall he reap" (Galatians 6:7-8). I know that there are some who have abused this principle for selfish motives, teaching that if you need money you should give money to a Christian (their) ministry and God will return finances to you. It is my conviction that selfish motives negate God's provision. For those, however, whose hearts are to serve the living God and trust Him more than their human wisdom, God meets their every need in miraculous way.

"Lord, make us wise stewards who rightly handle all You have given us. Give us your compassion that we can give freely to those in need both of our time and our energy as well as our finances. Give us hearts that seek foremost Your will and kingdom without selfish motive. Then, O Lord, we will give you praise for Your grace extended to us. We know that You will provide for us, even miraculously, to meet our every need according to Your riches and glory. Amen!"

Amen, so be it.
Shalom

Bob Goldsby

Posted January 17, 1997