Digging Deeper: He Loved, He Gave, with a Purpose
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16 (ESV)
HE LOVED, HE GAVE, WITH A PURPOSE
In John 3:16, God gave us a model for how to live a loving, giving life. God loved, so he gave, with a purpose. He was not coerced into giving. He did not give out of a sense of guilt. He did not give to be noticed (although all that He does is for His glory). He gave because He loved! Even though we are all sinners by nature, he sent his Son into the world to die for my sins and for your sins (see Romans 5:8).
Abraham and Sarah are two examples of God’s loving, purposeful giving. They could not conceive a child, even though God had promised Abraham he would be “the father of a multitude of nations” (Gen 17:4, ESV). Abraham had already tried to circumvent God’s plan (Ishmael), but God told Abraham that Sarah would deliver a son, Isaac. How did the couple react to the news? Joy? Weeping? No, laughter! Abraham was 100 years old, and Sarah was barren, but Isaac was born, and God established His covenant with Isaac. God loved, and He gave, with a purpose.
Jesus walked the earth for 33 years. He spent his last three years living with his group of 12 disciples. He taught them about his heavenly Father, not only in word, but also in deed. He loved them, even unto death (see John 15:13). He gave all of himself to them, willingly laying down his life (see John 10:11). He commissioned them to spread the good news of his coming and going (see the High Priestly Prayer, John 17). Jesus loved, and he gave, with a purpose.
Jesus is quoted by Paul as saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35, ESV). I think that in today’s “I want it all and I want it now” culture, one would be summarily canceled on all social media platforms for espousing that attitude! As you prepare for the upcoming year, open your eyes to the need that surrounds you. Lovingly look for opportunities to give, with a purpose. We are all to some extent gifted with time, talent, and treasure. Use those gifts that God gave you to bless others. God gave us Jesus – Jesus gave us eternal life. Give to others as a way of shining a light in this dark world. Who knows, that light may shine on the path to Jesus for a lost soul!
Phil Meade is a father of three, and grandfather of five. He has a Masters in Theological Studies from Liberty University, and lives in Acworth. He has led various small groups throughout his more than 20 years attending NorthStar Church. He recently retired after 33 years as a pilot for Delta Airlines.