Hebrews 13:16
But don't forget to help others and to share your possessions with them. This too is like offering a sacrifice that pleases God.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few months ago, we invited some friends over for a “soup supper” one evening. I made three “soups” – loaded baked potato, chili, and what I call “calico bean pot.” One of the guests in particular really liked my bean soup. He said, “I would like to have your recipe.” Now, I could have been really stingy and said, “Sorry, Bud … that’s a secret recipe.” I could reason that by keeping this recipe to myself, it would be all mine – somewhat one of my “signature dishes.” The only place for our family and friends to enjoy it would be at our table. But instead, I told this guest I would be glad to share the recipe with him.
Sometimes, we are like this as Christians. We don’t want to share what we have with others – from time and talent to material possessions to the blessings of an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. It’s like we think we will somehow diminish our self-worth or our own experience if we share with others. In truth, we all have more than we need of everything … material possessions, a few minutes of time for others, a helping hand, and even abundance in our relationship with God Almighty. If we share with others in God’s name, are we really afraid He will make us do without? Do you really believe that helping others and sharing your possessions with them will cause God to deplete your own supply?
Truly, the more we give, the more we get … although this should not be our motivation. We can find instance after instance in the Bible where someone tried to make a sacrifice, and God was so pleased that He blessed them abundantly. You can’t outdo God! So really, we have nothing to lose by giving to others. Whatever we give away, God will replace … in amounts we can’t even measure!
Don’t forget to help others and share your possessions with them … including your love and compassion. You will be amazed at what happens when you please God in this manner … and He will most surely bless you in return.
©2010 Debbie Robus
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