How can we "share the spoils" with others in our community today? Setting the Scene: Joshua 22:8 “ ‘Return to your tents with great wealth—with large herds of livestock, with silver, gold, bronze, and iron, and with a great quantity of clothing. Share the spoils of your enemies with your brothers.’ ” (Joshua 22:8) Timeless Principle The Lord blesses His people so they can bless others. The spoils of victory were never meant to be hoarded, but distributed to strengthen the whole community. What “Spoils” Look Like Today • Income and savings • Homes, vehicles, clothing, food • Skills, time, influence • Experiences, education, spiritual gifts • Emotional support and encouragement Why Sharing Matters • Reflects God’s generous heart (2 Corinthians 9:6–11) • Unites believers in practical love (Acts 2:44-45) • Demonstrates genuine faith (1 John 3:17) • Stores eternal treasure (Matthew 6:19-21) • Invites God’s blessing (Proverbs 19:17) Practical Ways to “Share the Spoils” Finances • Set aside a fixed percentage for benevolence in your budget. • Support local ministries, missionaries, and relief efforts. • Cancel an unnecessary subscription and redirect the amount to a family in need. Possessions • Keep a “give-away” box in the closet and fill it monthly. • Lend tools, appliances, or vehicles instead of letting them sit idle. • Open your home for small-group meetings or short-term housing. Time & Skills • Offer free tutoring, résumé help, or home repairs. • Volunteer at food banks, pregnancy centers, or elderly care facilities. • Mentor younger believers, passing along spiritual wisdom. Encouragement • Write notes or texts speaking Scripture over someone’s life. • Share testimonies of God’s provision to bolster others’ faith. • Practice consistent, listening presence with the lonely. Guardrails for Generous Living • Give willingly, not under compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Prioritize the household of faith while not neglecting unbelievers (Galatians 6:10). • Maintain integrity and transparency in stewardship. • Depend on God to replenish; you can’t out-give Him (Luke 6:38). Living the Passage Out Loud Return from every “battle” God wins for you—whether a promotion, a healed relationship, or a spiritual breakthrough—looking for someone to bless. Let the victory overflow beyond your tent, so the whole camp tastes the goodness of God. |
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