The Doorpost: The greater blessing

“In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Acts 20:35

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

This was the final reminder of the Apostle Paul to the leaders of the church at Ephesus. It stands in stark contrast to urges of our human nature and the spirit of our age. By nature we tend to think we are more blessed when we receive rather than when we give to others. Some even find ways to be paid more for not working than for working. Scripture warns us not to fall into this trap.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Paul commands us to follow his example of working night and day so as not to be a burden to others. ”If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” In Ephesians he tells those who have been avoiding work and stealing from others to work with their hands so that they have something to share with those in need.  

This pattern of working to give is foundational to following Jesus Christ and also to Samaritan Ministries health care sharing. Giving brings even more blessing than receiving.

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”  

Ray King is editor emeritus of the Samaritan Ministries newsletter.