There are so many examples of God giving increase in the scriptures. On the day of Pentecost the church was, “praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2.47). As Peter was preaching to those in the region of Judea,  many heard the word of God and believed, including about five thousand men (Acts 4.4). God was giving the increase and the church was growing in strength, character and number. What a blessing to know the God of heaven is still giving the increase today through His beloved Son.

Those who understand the will of God know the glory goes to Him and we are but servants of the Most High God. Paul would say these words: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase” (1 Cor. 3.6-7). Our responsibility is to do the will of the Lord and make sure He is pleased with our efforts of evangelism and spirituality (Eph. 5.17). These exhortations should remind us of the words of Jesus in Luke 17.10: “ ‘So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, “We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do”’ ” (Luke 17.10).

What can we do in the realm of evangelism that would position God to be glorified? We can simply be the lights He has called us to be. Paul told the Philippians to shine as lights in the world (Phil. 2.15). We can be a source of strength and encouragement to our fellow man and brethren. We can seek opportunities to serve our fellow man and perhaps we can garner the same potential response Paul spoke of to the Corinthians. Notice these words: “For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God” (2 Cor. 9.12). Paul would also make this point to the church at Ephesus when he said this: “to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Eph. 3.21).

We can give God the glory by rendering thanksgivings to Him through our worship and spiritual service. The Psalmist stated this question: “What shall I render to the LORD For all His benefits toward me?” (Psalms 116.12). We can render to Him our daily lives through sacrifice (Rom. 12.1-2). We can seek to improve our speech and character (2 Cor. 8.7). We can show forth the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Pet. 2.9). We can offer sincere thanksgivings with our lips to His matchless name (Heb. 13.15). There are more things we could say but this should get our minds going in the right direction.

Going about our daily lives positions us to carry the gospel with us. “And as you go, preach…” (Matt. 10.7), as Jesus said on one occasion. We must be as equipped as possible . For this reason we have different types of material to aid in our evangelism efforts. These are designed to guide our studies by way of supplementation and support. Furthermore, we want to be as prepared as possible for our benefit, but especially the one we are entrusted to study with. With this being said, we should all work in the areas of our abilities until we develop in those areas where we are not as comfortable. James stated, “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment” (James 3.1). We can give God glory by simply remaining in the role Peter talked about. “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1 Pet. 4.11).

In conclusion, giving God the glory for the increase is not only commanded but appropriate as well. We should do all we can to please Him for He has given us His Son and His Son gave us life and access to Him. Let’s do all we can to demonstrate the love of Christ and seek to glorify God in all we do. We should get into the habit of saying, “To God be the glory” and truly mean it with all of our heart. May the Lord bless us as we seek the kingdom first and ensure the gospel message is shared to all men (Matt. 6.33; Mark 16.15-16). To God be the glory!