Provision, Blessings, and the Bible

Introduction

• Main Scripture References:

  • 3 John 1:2

  • Genesis 12:2

  • Haggai 2:8-9

  • 1 Timothy 6:17-19

  • Proverbs 3:9

  • Genesis 12:1-4

Key Themes

1. Prosperity and Soul Prosperity

   • 3 John 1:2: Emphasizes the desire for believers to prosper and be in health as their soul prospers.

   • Definition of Success: Doing what God wants done.

   • Definition of Wealth: Having everything needed to exist and flourish in one's calling and purpose.

2. Blessing and Provision

   • Blessed: To not be in lack or want; to be favored.

   • Blessing: Experiencing God's grace, influence, protection, resources, and assistance.

   • Provision: The supernatural appropriation of God’s divine supply.

3. Purpose of Prosperity

   • Genesis 12:2: Prosperity is meant to enable us to be a blessing to others.

   • Stewardship: Biblical stewardship involves using God's provision to meet our needs and bless others.

4. Principle of Ownership

   • Haggai 2:8-9: God owns everything and delegates stewardship to us.

   • Stewardship: We are stewards, managing what we do not own.

5. Generosity and Good Deeds

   • 1 Timothy 6:17-19: Encourages doing good, being rich in good deeds, being generous, and willing to share.

   • Proverbs 3:9: Calls for honoring God with our wealth.

6. Transformation and Leaving Behind

   • Genesis 12:1-4: Every blessing is connected to leaving something behind, whether it be people, locations, or attitudes.

   • Transformation: God desires to transform us and bless us, favoring us with no lack.

The Role of Christ

• Christ as the Ultimate Provider: Jesus is the embodiment of God's provision, having given His life for our salvation. Through Him, we receive the ultimate blessing of eternal life and the resources needed to fulfill our God-given purpose.

• Christ's Example of Stewardship: Jesus demonstrated perfect stewardship by fulfilling His mission on earth, using His life to serve others and glorify God.

• Christ's Call to Generosity: Jesus taught and exemplified generosity, urging His followers to give freely as they have received (Matthew 10:8).

Application

• Personal Reflection: Consider what God is showing you and what He desires to make you. Reflect on areas where you need to leave behind old attitudes or fears.

• Practical Steps:

  • Evaluate your current stewardship of resources.

  • Identify ways to increase your generosity and good deeds.

  • Seek to align your definition of success and wealth with God's purposes.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Embrace the role of a steward, recognizing God's ownership of all things. Allow Christ to guide you in prospering your soul and using your blessings to impact others positively.