DECEMBER 23, Acts 20:28-35

As we approach Christmas and remember the greatest gift of God in the person of Jesus Christ, let’s consider the lesson of giving.

In Miletus, the apostle Paul met elders of the Ephesian church. This could be his last time seeing them and so he poured his heart out. He talked about his life. Two things he strived to do were to reach out to the unsaved and to teach believers. God had instructed Paul to go to Jerusalem. Even though he knew he would face problems there, he willingly submitted to God’s will. He remained steadfast in trials.

In his farewell sermon, he warned the elders against false teachers, some entering the church from outside and some rising from within the church, that seek to lead members astray. The Word of God is the only safeguard against false and wrong teachings and the elders must teach only the Bible.

In all these, he only wanted to follow Jesus’ example of giving and sacrificing. For Jesus had said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Paul had given his entire life to the Gospel work. A Christian gives of his time and effort to serve God because of his love for God. Love always shows itself in the action of giving. Jesus is our perfect example. Will you follow after Paul’s example even as he follows after Christ?

Write Galatians 2:20.

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Thought: Have you given of yourself to serve God? How do you feel?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Christian living is a life of giving because Jesus gave Himself for us. Help me to give my time and effort to serve You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.