October 11
Bible Reading: Acts 20:17-38
Acts 20:35, “Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
I love these words from Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Though this specific statement isn’t recorded in the gospel accounts, it encapsulates the essence of His life and ministry. Jesus exemplified the principle of giving more than any man before or since. He sacrificed and poured out His life, extending love and care in every possible way. He bore burdens, taught, helped, served, and shepherded. Ultimately, He gave His own life, offering Himself as a ransom for all—the greatest gift ever given. In this act, He manifested His divine identity, for God is the greatest giver.
The Apostle Paul was careful to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. As a recipient of grace, he understood that all he was and possessed was a gift from God. He did not serve as an apostle to gain anything for himself. Instead, he worked diligently to meet his own needs and provide for his friends. Generous in his support of others, Paul became a conduit of God’s blessings, exhorting the elders of Ephesus (and all of us) to adopt that same attitude.
Situated in northern Israel and surrounded by picturesque hills, the Sea of Galilee is nourished by the Jordan River. It serves as a vital resource for local agriculture and tourism, supporting a diverse ecosystem that includes various bird species, aquatic life, and, importantly, humans. In stark contrast, the Dead Sea lies to the east of Jerusalem, recognized as the lowest point on Earth’s surface. Its high salinity prevents most aquatic life from thriving, lending to its name. While visitors can effortlessly float on its surface or extract valuable minerals, the Dead Sea offers little in terms of vibrant life or natural beauty. A primary difference between the two bodies of water is their relationship with the Jordan River: the Sea of Galilee both receives and gives water, fostering a dynamic ecosystem, while the Dead Sea solely receives water, lacking an outlet and contributing to its unique yet barren environment.
As a recipient of the riches of God’s grace and mercy, you are incredibly blessed. However, God did not save you to be a mere depository of blessings; He has blessed you so that you might serve as a conduit. Opportunities to share abound—make it a point to be a blessing to others, drawing them to the source of all giving: God Himself.
“More blessed it is, because it is more God-like.”—Brian Bell
FREELY, FREELY
God forgave my sin in Jesus’ name.
I’ve been born again in Jesus’ name
And in Jesus’ name I come to you
To share his love as he told me to.
Refrain:
He said ‘Freely, freely you have received;, freely, freely give.
Go in my name, and because you believe others will know that I live.
All pow’r is giv’n in Jesus’ name
in earth and heav’n in jesus name
And in Jesus’ name I come to you
To share his pow’r as he told me to. [Refrain]
God gives us life in Jesus’ name
he lives in us in Jesus’ name
And in Jesus’ name I come to you
To share his peace as he told me to. [Refrain]
LookingtoJesus 