Sharing of what I have is important. I should remember that God provides what I need and everything else is just extra that takes up space. What then should I be doing with the extra?
“15Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. 16Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” – Hebrews 13:15-16 (ESV)
I see now. I should be sharing to the point of sacrifice. Once I have all that I need, I am to remember to share everything else with those around me. I am to be content with the provisions of my need and the extra I should be sharing with others.
How do we know we are sharing to the point of sacrifice?
This is a valid question that I believe I may know the answer, based on this and other passages.
“11And he answered them, ‘Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.’” – Luke 3:11 (ESV)
“2Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 3Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.” – Hebrews 13:2-3 (ESV)
I see here that I should be willing to give half of what I have to others as I may not know who I am ultimately serving. I am only responsible to serve, not to worry with who I am serving as long as my motives are rooted in the pleasing of God. I don’t know about you, but if I am sharing half, that is certainly a sacrifice for me. I should go back to remember that God gives to our NEEDs and if he is calling us to give half to others, then I do not NEED that half to serve Him.
Serving and/or sharing to the point of sacrifice is our call to action in praising and serving God. It is my duty to do so with a glad heart and remember the points of provision that come from God as a result.
When you are sharing with others, what are your parameters? Are you willing to give half of your possessions in service to others? Are you willing to share to the point of sacrifice?
Trevor's Thoughts 