Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Give

 Have you ever heard of FREE ART FRIDAYS?  It is a wonderful movement happening in major cities across the United States where artists "hide" artwork.   They place it in public areas in their city & leave clues on social media of where it can be found.  The recipient then posts their find back on social media (hopefully).  There is no financial gain for the artist from this experience (except maybe a bit of publicity).  It is possible there won't even be the satisfaction of having someone post & show their appreciation for the artwork found.  It is simply another outlet for artists to share their gifts and talents with others. There is a joy & excitement to give a part of what you have been given, with no reciprocation. 

In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said:  'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'

Acts 20:35  

We all have gifts, talents, training, and skills that can provide a living, meet needs, or gives great joy. Some are blessed to have all of that rolled into one.  However, we can look around our communities and see that there are those not about to make a living, needs that are going unmet, and people that seem so far removed from joy.  We can be so caught up in our own world that we do not see those struggling around us.  We may be jaded from past negative experiences, and feel that people need to take care of their own issues.  We may be overwhelmed by the enormity and level of need/distress that we feel unable to make a difference.  God has not called us to solve all the problems in the world.  He has called us to be available to do His will, and to use the gifts/talents/training/skills He has given us for His glory and honor.  

All that we have is a gift from God.  He has modeled for us how to give. He came and gave His life on the cross for our sins.  We can't out give God!  Ask Him what He would have you do.  Can you cut back on eating out so that you can give to a food pantry?  Can you give up going to the movies on the weekend so you can volunteer at the homeless shelter?  Can you take family time and put it to good use helping out the refugees in your community?  How can you use your gifts & talents to help your community?  Pray about it. 

Step out in faith...and GIVE!

!IT IS MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE!