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.”
Scripture Insights
Paul does not merely tell us what Jesus said; he also tells us we must remember it. Why? Because we have a tendency to be more aware of our personal needs than of our blessings, which makes us less likely to be generous with others. Generosity and gratitude are linked. We will never be generous people until we are grateful people. Once we are grateful, we will have no trouble becoming generous.
The work of blessing is also the work of remembering: the provision we’ve given, the blessing we’ve already received, the grace that has been freely distributed to us, and the love of God that covers. When we remember how we’ve been blessed, we become a blessing to others. Gratitude first, and generosity will always follow.
How has God blessed you? What provision has he provided? What spiritual giftings has he bestowed? What opportunities has he placed before you? What protection has he given you? Don’t just think about it—thank him for it.
Today’s Prayer
Jesus, our desire is to be like you. You gave your life so we wouldn’t have to, and you gave your life so we would know how to. Make us aware of your work in our life that we are ignorant of. Do not allow us to retain the spirit of spoiled children.
—Kevin Jack
Lead Pastor, Highland Park Church (Florida)
