The Blessing of Giving

08/14/2025


“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)

In The Book of Acts, we see Luke writing about a time that the Apostle Paul, spoke to the Ephesian elders, and reminded them of the life Jesus modeled, a life that poured out love, resources, and time for others. Notice, Paul doesn’t just tell them to help the weak; he shows them through his own example. And then he points to the heart of Jesus’ teaching: the joy of giving outweighs the pleasure of receiving.

In our culture, we often measure blessing by what we can get, more income, more possessions, more comfort. But Jesus flips the equation. True blessing comes when we release what we have to meet the needs of others. Think of it like a river: when it flows, life flourishes along its banks; when it’s dammed up, the waters stagnate. Generosity keeps our hearts alive and our faith active.

I remember hearing of a small-town mechanic who quietly fixed cars for single moms and never charged a dime. He didn’t do it for recognition or applause, he simply knew there was a need and he had the skills to help. And over time, his joy in seeing families back on the road far surpassed any profit he could have made. That’s the “more blessed” Jesus was talking about.

When we give our resources, our time, our encouragement, we step into a divine cycle where God uses us to bless others, and in return, fills our lives with deeper joy, purpose, and connection to His heart.

Action Steps to help on your journey:

Identify one person or group in need and meet that need this week without expecting anything in return.

Keep a gratitude journal noting moments when giving has brought you joy.

Pray for God to open your eyes to opportunities for generosity today.

Today’s Challenge:
Give something today; your time, talent, or treasure, to someone who cannot repay you, and watch how God fills your heart with joy.

Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching us the joy of giving. Forgive me for the times I’ve been more focused on what I can get than what I can give. Open my eyes to see the needs around me, and give me a heart that is quick to respond. May my giving reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. Amen.

Pastor Jeff

#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign

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