Today, I would like to speak to you about an essential aspect of our faith, which we can find in Acts 20:35. This passage powerfully encapsulates a truth at the heart of Christian living: "Giving has greater value than receiving."
To begin our exploration of this theme, let us reflect on the context of Acts 20:35.
> "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work, we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"' (Acts 20:35 NIV)
These words were spoken by the apostle Paul as he was preparing to leave the church elders were passed on to him from our Lord Jesus. By referring to Jesus' teachings, Paul emphasizes the importance of generosity and selflessness in our Christian journey.
Now, let us delve deeper into the significance of this message for us today. Unfortunately, our world constantly bombards us with messages that equate our worth and happiness with material possessions, wealth, and success. As a result, it is easy for us to become consumed with accumulating, receiving, and striving for more.
However, the words of Jesus remind us that true blessing and fulfillment come not from receiving but from giving. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus echoes this message, proclaiming:
> "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, man will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." "(Luke 6:38 NIV)
This giving is not limited to financial or material resources. As followers of Christ, we are called to constantly give of ourselves – our love, time, energy, and compassion. Consider the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). This man generously gave his time, resources, and care to help a needy stranger. In doing so, he displayed the essence of living, focusing on a life of generosity and selflessness.
When we approach life focusing on what we can give rather than what we can receive, we begin to experience the transformative power of God's love. The world tells us that to be blessed; we must strive to accumulate material wealth, energy, and fame. However, Jesus revealed time and time again that true blessing comes in giving:
> "The greatest among you will be your servant." (Matthew 23:11 NIV)
Dear friends, I encourage us to seek practical ways to implement this message daily:
Begin with small acts of kindness – hold a door open for someone, offer a listening ear, or share a meal with a neighbor.
Volunteer your time or resources to support those in our community who are in need.
In times of conflict or disagreement, strive to be the first to forgive and extend grace to others.
Then we, and others, can embrace the truth at the heart of Acts 20:35.
Comments