In what ways can we "share with those in need" in our community? Set Free to Give Ephesians 4:28: “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he may have something to share with the one in need.” Understanding the Call • The verse moves us from taking to contributing. • Honest work is not only for personal provision but for generosity. • Sharing is practical evidence of a changed heart (cf. Acts 20:35; James 2:15-17). Practical Ways to Share • Meet Immediate Needs – Stock a neighbor’s pantry or fridge when you know groceries are low (Luke 3:11). – Pay a utility bill anonymously for a struggling family. • Offer Skills and Labor – Use trade skills—plumbing, carpentry, tutoring—for those who cannot afford them (1 Peter 4:10). – Provide childcare so single parents can work or attend Bible study. • Give Financially with Intent – Regularly set aside a “generosity line” in your budget (1 Corinthians 16:2). – Support local shelters, crisis-pregnancy centers, and benevolence funds. • Share Time and Presence – Visit shut-ins, write encouraging notes, drive the elderly to appointments (Hebrews 13:16). – Invite the lonely to your table; hospitality meets both physical and emotional needs (Romans 12:13). • Multiply Resources Through the Body – Organize church food banks, clothing closets, or job-skills workshops. – Partner with trustworthy ministries for broader impact (2 Corinthians 8:1-4). • Advocate and Connect – Guide people to assistance programs or employment opportunities. – Mentor teens, refugees, or ex-offenders re-entering the workforce. Heart Attitudes That Honor Christ • Cheerful giving—“God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Quiet giving—avoid showiness (Matthew 6:1-4). • Compassion rooted in truth—meet needs without enabling harmful habits (Proverbs 27:5-6). • Stewardship—plan generosity; don’t give what belongs to creditors or family essentials (Proverbs 3:9-10). Guardrails and Wisdom • Pray for discernment before giving (Philippians 4:6-7). • Involve trusted believers when needs are complex. • Encourage reciprocal responsibility; where possible, help others become givers too (2 Thessalonians 3:10-13). Grace-Filled Encouragement • Every act of sharing reflects Christ, who “though He was rich… became poor” for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9). • “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD” (Proverbs 19:17). Our giving is never wasted. • Start where you are: one meal, one hour, one gift. God multiplies loaves and fishes when offered in faith. |
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