“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
The Calling to Support Missions
As followers of Christ, we are called to support those who dedicate their lives to spreading the Gospel. Our contribution is not just financial; it’s about partnering with missionaries in their mission of sharing faith. This can involve prayer, encouragement, and, most importantly, financial support to ensure they can carry out their work effectively. When we give to support missionaries, we become part of a larger mission. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing our giving can help spread God’s love and truth across the globe. The Bible not only encourages us to give but teaches us the value of cheerful giving, embodying a heart that desires to see others come to know Jesus. By responding to the call, we can witness the incredible impact our generosity can have.
Philippians 4:15
“Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only.” – Philippians 4:15
Romans 10:15
“And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'” – Romans 10:15
1 Corinthians 9:14
“In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” – 1 Corinthians 9:14
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8
Matthew 28:19
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19
The Impact of Generosity
When we think about giving, particularly to missionaries, we must recognize the profound impact of our generosity. Every dollar we contribute goes towards creating opportunities for communities to hear about Jesus. This act of kindness not only helps sustain missionaries but also enables them to reach places that may otherwise be untouched by the Gospel. We should hold onto the reality that our contributions serve as seeds planted in the hearts of many. Generosity matters because it can change lives and transform communities. The beautiful thing about our giving is that we become part of the miraculous works God does through these missionaries.
Acts 20:35
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” – Acts 20:35
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Proverbs 11:25
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38
2 Corinthians 8:13-15
“Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need.” – 2 Corinthians 8:13-15
The Principle of Sacrifice
When we consider giving money to missionaries, we reflect upon the principle of sacrifice. It requires us to make thoughtful decisions about how much we are willing to set aside in order to support the mission of God. Sacrificial giving doesn’t merely mean donating what is comfortable; it’s about moving beyond our comfort zone for a greater purpose. We know God asks us to put His mission first in our lives, trusting that He will provide for our needs. This principle teaches us that every act of sacrifice for a greater cause fulfills God’s purpose and fuels His work among the nations.
Mark 12:41-44
“Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.'” – Mark 12:41-44
Luke 14:33
“In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” – Luke 14:33
Matthew 6:21
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21
1 John 3:17
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17
Luke 18:22
“When Jesus heard this, he said to him, ‘You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'” – Luke 18:22
When we give to missionaries, we experience the joy of participating in something much larger than ourselves. This act of giving brings not only joy to the receivers but also fills our hearts with satisfaction of being part of God’s work. We should truly appreciate the journey of joy that unfolds when we choose to give generously. This joy goes beyond just the act of giving; it encapsulates the blessings that come from being used by God to impact lives around us. Our support helps others carry out their mission and sets off a beautiful cycle of giving that continues to bring joy to everyone involved.
2 Corinthians 9:10
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.” – 2 Corinthians 9:10
Acts 2:44-45
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” – Acts 2:44-45
Proverbs 22:9
“The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.” – Proverbs 22:9
Proverbs 3:9
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” – Proverbs 3:9
2 Corinthians 8:7
“But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” – 2 Corinthians 8:7
The Role of our Church Community
Our church community plays a vital role in the mission of supporting missionaries. As a collective body of believers, we are called to unify in our giving, making it possible for us to make a significant impact together. There is strength in numbers, and through our shared generosity, we can help expand God’s Kingdom across nations. By coming together, we support various missionaries who may be on different fronts, whether locally or internationally. It’s a blessing to be in community and we should take advantage of that to join hands in supporting those who are boldly taking the Gospel to others.
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
1 Corinthians 12:12
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Acts 4:32
“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.” – Acts 4:32
The Promise of God’s Provision
One beautiful promise we hold dear is the assurance of God’s provision. When we give, we’re trusting that God will care for our needs. It can sometimes feel like a leap of faith, but scripture reminds us that we can rely on God’s faithfulness. He knows our hearts and desires, and He will supply all we need when we put His work first. Understanding this promise helps to ease our minds about what we give, as it reassures us that we will not go without. Believing in this provision allows us to give with open hearts and confidence in God’s plans.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Matthew 6:26
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
Luke 12:24
“Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!” – Luke 12:24
Matthew 7:11
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” – Matthew 7:11
1 Timothy 6:17
“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.” – 1 Timothy 6:17
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the importance of giving money to missionaries, we are reminded of our role in God’s great commission. We have seen how our support plays a vital role in the lives of those dedicated to spreading His love and truth. Through our generosity, we can experience joy, impact communities, and trust in God’s provision. It is thrilling to know that we can be part of something greater than ourselves while leaning into our church community. Let us continue to cheerfully give, knowing we are contributing to God’s beautiful mission around the world.
We encourage you to explore more topics to read, including powerful insights about generosity and how to be a part of community giving. These resources can further inspire us to deepen our understanding and commitment to serving others.