But if you belong to Jesus Christ, and the Bible is very clear about this, “You have been enriched in every way (I Corinthians 1:5).”  Do you believe that? Chances are, you’re skeptical. If you are, then I’ve certainly been there with you. What usually happens is that people of faith, wanting not to get their hopes up too much, spiritualize this promise into oblivion, better yet, into kingdom come. We speak of a home in heaven, of golden streets and the like. But, looking at this passage of scripture, it’s very clear that the writer is talking about a present experience. Let’s read a little bit more.
I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 5 For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— 6 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. 7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 8 He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
(I Corinthians 1:4-9)

Notice that the writer says “you [all] do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.” The context is that of having not yet seen Christ face to face. It’s this side of glory. Riches in heaven? Of course. Riches now? Yes also.

Okay, so you’re probably on to me that I’m not talking about riches as in large homes, nice cars, airtight financial security. At least I hope so. There are plenty who make this leap and I think they’re mistaken. Rather, what the scripture is talking about is having a sense of assurance and trust that is greater than fear. He’s talking about having the resources to do what you need to do and to be able to thrive. He’s also clearly talking about being caught up in the grand purposes of God in Christ.

This Sunday, we’re going to unpack this more thoroughly. The bottom line is this: living the life of a Christ-follower requires a grasp of the endless enormity of the resources of God. Where so many falter is in not taking them into account. Where many others fall short is in not seeking after them diligently enough. Check out Proverbs 25:2, which says, It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.
You might also want to take a look at Jesus parable in Luke 11. God’s power and provision is there, but it is not readily apparent. To experience the wealth of God’s work in our lives, we find ourselves seeking Him, and in the end, we become dependent upon Him and not on His blessings. In this way, God’s sons and daughters learn to be partners with Him in the use of His resources and not just the recipients.
Okay, and there’s one more thing—and it doesn’t present itself as very fun. In the passage, Paul says, “therefore you do not lack…” “You” here is actually “Y’all” (or Yous as they say ‘round these parts). He’s not telling them that each one of them individually have been enriched in every way. He’s saying that together, they are. Try to get your head around that one. It goes against so much of how we are socialized. But God has hidden his wealth—his love, power, generosity, encouragement, security, opportunities to serve, in our brothers and sisters.

What this says to us is plain: God’s promised us all the resources to do what he calls us to do and to be. So, what’s the risk involved in seeking them out? Grab a shovel and lets start digging.

Yours for the Journey,

Pastor Tom