MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE

Paul exhorting the elders from Ephesus [Acts 20:17] has this to say about work and helping the needy in Acts 20:35 – “35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

The two points that are clear to the reader – One, to work with our hands. Two, to help those in need. In fact, Paul links them both – “…that so labouring ye ought to support the weak…” Thus, helping the poor and the needy becomes as essential act or duty or responsibility of a Christian.

This argument is strengthened and further qualified by the words of Jesus – “…remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Helping the poor, in other words, giving, is more blessed than to receive. How do we fare on this matter? *It speaks volumes about us, and where our heart – “21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21