Imagine walking into a grocery store, a shopping mall, or even a church building and sitting by the entrance is a poor person with a sign saying, “Homeless, please help.” What goes through your mind? Do you think, “I don’t have any cash” or “I’m in a hurry” or “Will giving even help?”
What should we do when we find ourselves in situations where we lack the resources or understanding about how to best meet a need?
Peter and John were confronted with a similar situation when a crippled beggar asked them for a handout as they were going into the temple to pray. Peter responded, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Then Peter reached down, pulled the man up, and he was instantly healed!
Here is the principle— God calls us to give what we do have, not what we don’t.
Peter didn’t have money, but he had faith. So he shared his faith in Jesus’ healing power and gave the man a hand up rather than a hand out. Biblical generosity includes giving money, but also goes far beyond. It involves giving of ourselves, our hearts, and our faith. It involves taking that extra step of faith and praying for others.
But, when we do step out in faith, push past our fears, and trust in the power of Jesus’ name, we open up the opportunity for God to work miracles. One act of compassionate obedience can lead to lives being transformed, people being saved, and God being glorified.
You may not encounter a homeless person today, but you may come across a person needing encouragement, comfort, help, peace, friendship, etc. Let’s approach every situation as an opportunity to share Jesus with others. May our lives be a witness to the power of God at work through ordinary people who are willing to give what they have for His sake.
Instead of focusing on what we don’t have, let’s step out in faith and share what we do have.
What should we do when we find ourselves in situations where we lack the resources or understanding about how to best meet a need?
Peter and John were confronted with a similar situation when a crippled beggar asked them for a handout as they were going into the temple to pray. Peter responded, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Then Peter reached down, pulled the man up, and he was instantly healed!
Here is the principle— God calls us to give what we do have, not what we don’t.
Peter didn’t have money, but he had faith. So he shared his faith in Jesus’ healing power and gave the man a hand up rather than a hand out. Biblical generosity includes giving money, but also goes far beyond. It involves giving of ourselves, our hearts, and our faith. It involves taking that extra step of faith and praying for others.
But, when we do step out in faith, push past our fears, and trust in the power of Jesus’ name, we open up the opportunity for God to work miracles. One act of compassionate obedience can lead to lives being transformed, people being saved, and God being glorified.
You may not encounter a homeless person today, but you may come across a person needing encouragement, comfort, help, peace, friendship, etc. Let’s approach every situation as an opportunity to share Jesus with others. May our lives be a witness to the power of God at work through ordinary people who are willing to give what they have for His sake.
Instead of focusing on what we don’t have, let’s step out in faith and share what we do have.
Posted in devo