“The Joy of Giving”
AV First
Pastor Ed Carlson
11/26/23

How many of us are convinced that contentment would be there if only we had a bit more money, a little less stress, more of something else?

Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Money isn’t everything and money isn’t nothing, but is Something and that Something is what God has chosen as a vehicle for us to help others and to build the Kingdom of God.

Joy is independent from External Circumstance.

Philippians 4:14-16 (ESV)
14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.

Money isn’t everything and money isn’t nothing, but is Something and that Something is what God has chosen as a vehicle for us to help others and to build the Kingdom of God.

The Church Has Always Been A Source of Support And Encouragement For The Good News To Reach The Ends of the Earth.

Philippians 4:17 (ESV)
17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.

Philippians 4:17 (NASB)
17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account.

Giving develops Christian character.

Our

For Giving Should Be

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and

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and Our

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For Giving Should Be That We Will Receive From

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and That He Will Be

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with the Results of Our

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.

Philippians 4:18-19 (ESV)
18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

God Is Pleased When His People Give Towards His Work.

Why is God pleased with our giving?
-Develops Our

-Develops His

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-Develops His

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Philippians 4:19 (ESV)
19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Giving Is Not A

I Owe, But A Seed That I

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