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“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
After these forty-two years of ministry, I have learned two important things. First, God’s servants are totally dependent upon the grace of God. God’s grace or favor provides far more than forgiveness. God shapes and molds us into the kind of people that He wishes us to be.
In Philippians 1:6 Paul wrote, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Yes, God expects us to use the talents and abilities He gives us, but we should never forget that every good gift comes from Him (James 1:17). Paul urges us, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:12–13).
Second, we are wholly dependent upon the kindness of God to provide for our needs and the needs of this ministry. God does not send us into His vineyard empty-handed and ill-equipped. God’s grace abounds so that we have all sufficiency in all things at all times for every good deed. When faithful Christians ask, God answers; when they seek, He helps them find; and when they knock, the Lord opens the door. God truly answers prayer (Matthew 7:7-9).
Phil Sanders
Edmond, OK