NOV 26

Romans 12:12-15
Memorise Proverbs 3:27-28
"Withhold not good from them... when it is the power of thine hand..."

An example of “distributing to the necessity of saints” was the church in Jerusalem who voluntarily sold their possessions and goods for distribution to the needy (Acts 2:44-45). As Christ said, there will always be the poor amongst us (Mark 14:7). This is the case even in an affluent society and church. There are and will be saints who are in need.

Hospitality is the act of hosting both friends and strangers with kindness and generosity, expecting nothing in return. Further, to be “given” to hospitality goes beyond being ready to be hospitable, but involves, pursuing after it – seeking out opportunities to exercise it.

At the heart of such giving is charity and great love because believers share a common and precious bond in the Lord. We are one family in Him, and thus, so are our possessions. It is hence inconceivable not to give part of what we have to supply the needs of another because the immeasurable love of God constrains us.

How willing you are to give speaks of how much brotherly love you have for fellow believers, and testifies of the love of Christ in you. How you view all that you have will also affect how willing you are to give to the needs of others. Are you just a steward, or an owner with rights and entitlements? Do you hold them in an open palm – to be freely given and used for believers in need and for the glory of God? Or hold on to them in a tight-fisted manner, hidden away?

Giving does not begin and end with monetary offerings. It includes our time, talents, home, possessions for which we should be equally generous and quick to offer to any believer in need. We should also be on the lookout for newcomers – strangers in our church, to exercise hospitality and making them feel welcome and cared for.

Thought: Do you think, "I have given enough", or "how can I give or do more?"
Prayer: Lord, let me seek out opportunities to do good to all, with all that I have been entrusted with.