Good day dear friends. We continue to talk about assisting the poor and how this was a challenge for Paul to share with the people in Corinth. It is believed the people of Corinth, because of the strong economy, were "new rich." They didn't have status like "old money" but they could support their ministry and beyond.
Here is our study guide for today:
Tuesday: Acts 20:35 quotes Jesus’ saying on giving. It calls to mind an old, old television commercial, and something someone will more than likely share with you as you compile your Christmas list. Please read the verse and ponder in your heart why it was that Jesus said what He said.
Here is that passage from Acts 20:35 In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive.' " (I recommend you read the whole chapter).
Yes, that old commercial, a Fritos (remember them, they're still around!) that had the cartoon character running around trying to get Fritos, saying, "It is better to give than receive, so give!" Glad to know Jesus inspired it. Jesus knew how special it is for those hearts who learn how to share and to give. In some cases it has even saved people's lives. To hoard and keep and be stingy brings about a bitterness that is not good for our body; it is in giving that one receives a liberating and life-giving blessing. In the case of one of America's first millionaires, this man became so wealthy, he didn't know what to do with his money. As a result that worried him and bothered him to the point of illness. He was resigned to die. Yet, a close friend and advisor spoke to him about the truth. He said to his dying friend, "If you will learn to give, you might learn to live." And so it was. He gave and he lived. I believe that had he not learned to give, he would have died a bitter, empty man. And his wealth? Well, it wouldn't have been in a trailer behind the hearse.
How do you feel about giving? Have you stopped to realize how blessed you are? Has God shown you yet the plight of the "weak" in our midst and throughout the world? Wouldn't Jesus' message be relevant to your life?
PRAYER: Loving God of giving, speak to my heart today. Let me know how blessed and wonderful it is to have an attitude of gratitude, and a living for giving. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
Have a blessed and great day in the Lord!
e.v.
