Text:
Acts 20:33-35 (NIV)
33 I have not coveted anyone's silver or gold or clothing.
34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions.
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.'"
Observation:
The Apostle Paul is one of my mentors. I have studied, taught, preached, and written devotionally through his letters extensively.
I treasure the message he gives in Acts 20 because it is a farewell message. I'm impressed, encouraged, and empowered by the last words of a spiritual giant like Paul.
It's in the DNA of God's beloved children to be givers, Paul said it, James said it, and Jesus said it, and set the example by doing it. You can't beat God giving, no matter how hard you try; this song is stirring my soul.
James 1:17-18 (NIV)
17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
We are the receivers, and the greater blessing comes in giving. What do you have that you did not receive?
1 Chronicles 29:14 (NIV)
14 "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.
I like the way Paul concluded his farewell message, and this is the way I close today's word of encouragement.
Acts 20:36 (NIV)
36 When he had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed.
Prayer:
Father God, hallowed be Your name. Father, I thank You for forming us with the DNA to be givers.
Father, we are so thankful for the blessings of Your presence, peace, power, and provisions that You give to us so graciously, and abundantly. Father, may we be willing to give more, and receive more joy in being gracious givers. And all who agree; together we say a hearty, Amen.
Ephesians 6:10-11 (ESV)
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Read all the Daily Devotionals by Herb Cotton; click here:
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