Page 163 - First Steps 2023

Before you jump out a window believing your faith will let you fly, a
quick reminder Paul was referring to his ability to be content in any situ-
ation. That’s the context, it’s not a blanket promise that you can levitate,
lift a Volkswagen, or instantly play chess like a grand master.
And notice that it’s Jesus who has the strength and power, not Paul.
In the book of John, chapter 15, Jesus tells his followers that if they

abide in him, they’ll bear fruit. Otherwise, not so much. And you aren’t
around the Kingdom of God long before you discover just how true that is.
When you abide in Jesus, there’s great power for contentment, and
also for courage and commitment. And it’s also true Jesus does work
through his followers to do amazing things, speak truth to power, and right
injustices.
It happens all the time—but remember that it’s Jesus making things
happen.

Tell your discipler something you’d like your powerful Lord, Jesus, to
do in the world or your life.

Together, if it’s a request you think aligns with his purposes, ask him
to do it.

• Provision
“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs
from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”

The Philippians who sent money to Paul sacrificed to do it—Paul says
as much in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5. Paul was appreciative not just of the
resources they sent but also of the godly generosity prompting their gift.
As a Jesus-follower, if you’re equally generous to those in need, Paul
is writing to you, too. He’s summing up a promise made by Jesus in 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.”—Jesus

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