God's Glory Church

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35

When her young son underwent another round of treatment for muscular dystrophy, Carey wanted to take her time away from her family’s problems and do something useful for someone else. Therefore, she collected her son’s shoes, which were too small for him, but were in good condition, and donated them to the ministry. Her donation encouraged friends, family members and even neighbors to join the cause, and soon more than two hundred pairs of shoes were collected!

Although the purpose of the shoe drive was to bless others, Carey felt that her family was the most blessed: “The whole experience really lifted our spirits and helped us focus on the outside world.”

The apostle Paul understood how important it is for followers of Jesus to show generosity. On the way to Jerusalem, Paul stopped in Ephesus. He knew that this would probably be his last meeting with the believers of the church he had founded there. In his farewell address to the elders, Paul reminded them how diligently he had served God (Acts 20:17-20) and encouraged them to do the same (v. 35). In conclusion, he quoted the words of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35).

The Lord wants us to sacrifice sincerely and humbly (Luke 6:38). If we trust His guidance, He will give us opportunities to do so, and we will be surprised at the joy we will experience.

How might God call you to be generous? When have you been gifted with someone’s generosity?

Dear Father, help me to truly give of my time and resources to others.

By Alison Kieda