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Infinite Riches

by Major Lydia Pearson, USA Eastern Territory

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half-done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father's full giving is only begun.
For out of his infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.

Annie Johnson Flint

Major Lydia Pearson
USA Eastern Territory

What a wonderful promise! Annie Johnson Flint's song echoes Paul's words of encouragement to first-century believers: 'My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus' (Philippians 4:19 NIV). '"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness"' (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV). As 21st-century leaders, we need this encouragement, too.

The Christmas season is the busiest time of the year for The Salvation Army in the United States. Christmas kettle fund-raising and the distribution of food and toys can cause frustration. And then there is the fatigue and lack of resources that accompany the season. The lack of resources is applicable to any season. During these times it's very easy to focus on our circumstances and become discouraged by all that we don't have.

The good news is that we are part of a divine partnership. God not only invites us to be his ambassadors to the world, he also promises to provide us with everything we need to accomplish the task. We have 'infinite riches' at our disposal. Infinite = unlimited, immense, inestimable. Riches = treasures, reserves, resources.

God's infinite riches become more evident when our strength and resources are depleted. Because of God's faithfulness in meeting my needs in the past, I've learned that I can trust him to meet my current and future needs. I often find myself praying, 'Okay, God, we need another miracle.' Then I stand in amazement and gratitude as his infinite riches appear at the exact moment they're needed. Whether the need is related to personnel, finances, equipment or anything else, God always has the answer and he provides in ways we never imagined. In fact, Paul told the Ephesians that God 'is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power at work within us' (Ephesians 3:20 NIV). I like the way the King James Version puts it: God is able to do 'exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think'. That's a lot!

'For out of his infinite riches in Jesus - he giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.'

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