Sunday Reflection: The Promise of Giving
Just like the God in whose image we’re made, we are to be generous givers.
To get the most out of this devotion, set aside time to read the scriptures referenced throughout.
In Acts 20:1-38, Paul met with the Ephesian church elders one last time. They all believed their next reunion would be in eternity, so the gathering closed with heartfelt prayer, tears, embraces, and Paul’s final encouragement: “You must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35).
You may have heard this promise before, but have you ever put it to the test? Offering others our time, money, resources, and energy may feel risky, but Jesus Himself assured us it is not. In fact, He connected the idea of giving with blessing. What’s more, one reason we are blessed with ample supply is so that we can bless others (2 Corinthians 9:8-11).
Giving was always part of God’s divine purpose for us—which means we already have what we need in order to begin sharing with others. By doing so, we’re actually following Jesus’ example: We receive His generosity and His life and then let it flow through us like a river.
Think about it
• What can you share with someone today—good works (1 Timothy 6:18), comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4), resources (Ephesians 4:28), or maybe patience (James 1:19)?
Bible in One Year: Psalm 44-49
