Daily devotion –
“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)
Today, let’s pause and consider what truly defines the DNA of a Christian. The world often tells us that life is about accumulating wealth, fame, or power. But the apostle Paul flips this idea on its head: for Paul, life was all about Jesus Christ. Everything else was secondary, and even death was not a loss, but a gain, because it meant being with Christ.
Paul’s life was marked by generosity—not just with possessions, but with time, love, and himself. He was willing to stay and serve others, even when heaven beckoned, because he knew that sharing life joyfully is at the heart of being a Christian.
The principle is simple: living is giving. We don’t give because we hope to receive; we give because we have already received so much from God. This is grace in action. Jesus Christ is our ultimate example—He gave Himself for us, so that we might share in the riches of His grace.
When we give, whether it’s our time, resources, or love, we’re investing in eternity. God promises that His grace will abound toward us, giving us all we need for every good work. But this promise is for those who give cheerfully, not grudgingly.
Example: Mary of Bethany
Mary’s act of grace giving—anointing Jesus with costly perfume—was criticised by others, but praised by Jesus. Her generosity was extravagant, but it was also eternal. Her story is told wherever the gospel is preached, showing us that grace giving can have consequences far beyond what we can imagine.
Personal Challenge
Are you living and giving by grace?
Is your generosity motivated by what you have already received from God?
Do you give cheerfully, without counting the cost or fearing criticism?
Let’s ask God to help us be grace givers and grace livers—people who invest in eternity and bless others with the love and resources we’ve received.
Lord, thank You for the grace You have poured into my life. Help me to live and give generously, not out of obligation, but out of gratitude for all You’ve done. May my life be an investment in eternity, and may my giving bring glory to Your name. Amen.