Acts 4:32-37
Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

As Americans, most of us have no idea how it is to be truly poor. We may struggle with finances at times, we may lose our job or our house, but unless we visit the mission field, we do not have an idea of what it is to be poor.

The believers were a poor and needy group since they were experiencing oppression because of their faith. They had every reason to make other requests and we surely wouldn’t blame them, but they were so overwhelmed with thankfulness that they had no thought for their own comfort. Being filled with the Holy Spirit gave them a love and concern for each other. Those who had extra, shared with those who didn’t. Believers gave to each other sacrificially.

How do we sacrifice for others? I’m not talking about God’s 10% that He already owns. I’m talking about above and beyond. How long has it been since you’ve seen a need and filled it, denying yourself of a comfort or an extra something because of your giving? Have you listened to the Holy Spirit as He prompted you to give of yourself, or give of your resources for someone else? After all, it is truly more blessed to give than to receive.

Written by Kaye Dee Richards. Kaye Dee lives with her husband Colin in Morrison, CO. They have 4 children, Joshua, Amelia, Victoria, and Julia.

To contact Kaye Dee, leave a comment, message us on Facebook, or email comments@thebeautifulspirit.org.