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.”

Here’s the setting…Paul is in Miletus, speaking to the elders of the church in Ephesus. This moment is fraught with emotion and significance; Paul is on his way to Jerusalem, aware that trials and imprisonment await him there. He summons the Ephesian elders to give them final instructions, encouragement, and warnings, knowing that he might never see them again. Acts 20:35 is a vibrant gem within the tapestry of the New Testament, where Paul recalls Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” This statement encapsulates a foundational Christian principle that emphasizes the importance and joy found in giving to others over the act of receiving. At its core, this verse underscores the virtue of generosity, urging believers to look beyond their own needs and comforts to consider how they can benefit those around them. It reflects Jesus’ teachings on love and service, urging followers to embody a spirit of giving in their daily lives. Acting generously not only fulfills the needs of others but also enriches the giver’s soul, fostering a community of love, kindness, and mutual support. This teaching challenges the often self-centered focus prevalent in society, encouraging a shift towards generosity and selflessness. It suggests that true happiness and fulfillment come not from amassing wealth or possessions for oneself but from what we can do for others. This perspective is integral to Christian discipleship, where the welfare of the community and the practice of love take precedence over individual gain. Thus, Acts 20:35 calls believers to consider their lives and resources as tools for God’s work, guiding them to find deeper satisfaction and joy in the act of giving and serving others, following the example set by Jesus Christ. The verse sits within a deeply meaningful context in the Book of Acts, which documents the early days of the Christian church and the spread of the Gospel through the ministries of the Apostles. When Jesus tells us that our giving is more blessed, He’s telling us that there is more happiness to be found in God when we give; rather than when we receive. Both giving a receiving are blessed acts, but giving is more blessed. We are tasked to work hard to help the weak and to aide those in need of assistance. Giving is rewarding; giving will not impoverish you. In fact, when you give, you create more room to receive from God. When you give, you become a miracle to that someone looking for a miracle. You become an answer to prayer. You deepen your relationship with man and God when you give. It frees you from greed and leads you to a happier and more fulfilling life. It is better to give, than to receive. So give freely.