Talk Tuesday-It Is More Blessed To Give Than To Receive

I met a friend who I had not seen in many years, for coffee. As we were reminiscing, she reminded me of an important lesson from the Lord:

"And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "Acts 20:35

As I listened to my friend speak, I pondered this truth. I am selfish by nature. It is my natural, human inclination to look out for myself first before others. By worldly standards, this is the acceptable norm. We live in what I like to call, the 'i-Culture.' The message Jesus teaches is so contrary to that which the world espouses. I have heard this many times over, 'I must love myself first in order to love others.' I beg to differ. I would reword this, 'In order to love others, I must first receive the love of Christ into my own heart.' That love which came through death and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, sets us free to love others in a selfless manner. I have met Christians who have given out of their lack, served in their weariness, prayed for others while in the throes of their own pain, loved those who despised them and blessed those who cursed them. This is a testimony to God's wisdom, for when we give that seed is multiplied tenfold.

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. " Luke 6:38

Please click on the comments link below to share with us how you have experienced the blessing of giving! May we also challenge you to do something special for someone this week. We look forward to hearing from you.