And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 NLT
Paul was on his “farewell tour.” He traveled, built up the churches, and encouraged them. He endured persecution on the way and knew that his life was under daily threat. He told his friends he didn’t know everything that awaited him as he headed toward Jerusalem, except that the Spirit of God had told him that prison and attacks would meet him in city after city. Paul’s heart was characterized by the love of God and generosity and commitment to the mission, and he determined that nothing mattered to him except finishing the mission Jesus had given him.
As he stopped and shared his love one more time with the church in Ephesus, Paul shared his testimony again. He told them that he didn’t withhold anything from them and had shared every word God gave him. He had been a devoted father to them. Though he told them he was aware he would not see them again on this earth, he confidently committed them to God’s grace that would build them up and give them an inheritance as part of God’s family. Acts 20 tells us they were so overwhelmed with emotion they could barely let him go.
We often hear the words of Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than receive,” but Paul’s words give a special context. His life was a living example. “I have never coveted anyone’s silver or gold or fine clothes. You know that these hands of mine have worked to supply my own needs and even the needs of those who were with me. And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
It's better to give than to get. It is better to give than receive. He’s not talking about Christmas or birthday presents. He is talking about a way of life, the life he lived that gave him fulfillment, purpose, and confidence as he faced the end of his time here on earth. He was able to say without any fear of disagreement, “I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard.” Not “because you have plenty” but because it’s the commitment and core of your life.
- What would you like the final account of your life to be to those you love the most? Jesus, help me be a constant example of self-sacrificial, generous love. May I be able to say I was an example of selfless giving your way.