"But David said, “No, my brothers! Don’t be selfish with what the LORD has given us. He has kept us safe and helped us defeat the enemy” (1 Samuel 30:23).
REFLECTION:
People who visit Third-World countries are often amazed at the Christian community’s generosity, despite their lack of material goods. They may share all the food they have for a week at a special meal for guests. Believers stretch what little they have to benefit many. Their generosity expresses worship to the God who provides all they have, and they gladly share it. They live out what David instructed his men, “Don’t be selfish with what the LORD has given us.”
What has God given you so that you can share it with others? Perhaps you have resources that could help your church provide for that ministry's need? Or you could give a word of encouragement that would enable a struggling friend to keep going? Perhaps you could share the gift of your time so that your neighbor who cares for an elderly loved one can take a break?
Worship in the form of sharing with others doesn’t have to wait until you can afford it. Paul says of the believers in Macedonia, “Though they have been going through much trouble and hard times, their wonderful joy and deep poverty have overflowed in rich generosity. For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford but far more. And they did it of their own free will”(2 Corinthians 8:2–3).
Who could use your help? Why not call right now and offer to share what you have with that person?
PRAYER:
God, thank you for all you have given me. You have provided abundantly.I lift it all up to you now with open hands, asking that you would help me share what I have as an act of worship and gratitude to you.
RESPONSE:
How difficult is it for you to share with others? Make a list of three specific items you own that could be of assistance to someone else (clothes, tools, food, money). Ask God to lead you to those who can receive your effort to express gratitude to God.
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