Distributing to the Necessity with Our Harvesting

Examining Scripture:

“Distributing to the necessity of saints;
given to hospitality.”
Romans 12:13

Evaluating Soil:

In God’s Word, we see instructions and themes that involve love, grace, fruitfulness, and sharing. It’s pretty obvious that, in following Christ’s example, we as Christians should be the most sensitive, selfless, sharing, and sacrificial people our family, friends, church, and communities have ever known.

Somewhere along this long journey called life, it seems many of us have lost the spirit of hospitality. We have needs. We see others’ needs, and yet we sit idly by. Not only will we not ask for help. We don’t offer to help others. It’s a shame that we are missing out on serving, sharing supplies, and struggling together.

Experiencing Seasons:

I’ve noticed through the years that, oftentimes, faithful Christians serve through their churches alone. Some do this by choice; because they prefer to work alone or don’t like interference in their domain. Others can’t find volunteers willing to serve with them.

Ladies, who I’ve had the opportunity to work with, have often been surprised when I’ve shown up un-expectedly to lend a hand with a willing heart and my tool box. They’ve said things like:

• “That’s so sweet of you. I’m shocked anyone showed up.”
• “You didn’t have to come over to help.”
• “I’m okay. I’ve got this covered.” 
• “I don’t need anything right now. Thanks though.”
• “Maybe you should see if someone else needs help.”

These responses can be disheartening to a willing volunteer.  It’s dampened my spirit numerous times.

Someone, who shows up to serve on a project or assist with preparations for an event, may see these tasks as a chance to share from their surplus of time or provisions in service to God through their church.  Maybe that’s why we don’t jump up to volunteer like we should. Maybe we’ve been turned down or turned away too many times. Maybe we haven’t been offered the opportunity to help. Maybe we want to avoid rejection.

I’m learning that God knows our hearts. He’s thankful when we’re willing to serve and share, even if His people don’t accept the assistance. We can rest assured that there will be someone, somewhere, who can benefit from what we have to give.

Embracing Solace:

Everyone needs the comfort of food, clothing, shelter, and security and need to be encouraged, edified, and exhorted by God’s Word and fellow Christians. There’s little solace found without them.

Enjoying Simplicity:

Even in our times of need, we are called to distribute to the necessities of the saints. We don’t have to have a big farm to provide food, or sew and own a store to provide clothes, or be a builder with a construction crew to help someone find a place to live and help maintain it. We don’t have to stand guard day and night to offer a sense of security to the lonely or fearful.

Employing Solutions:

Hospitality can be shown in whatever ways we can share from the bountiful blessings of the harvest God has provided for us. We can serve within our reach and resources by:

• Taking people to Scripture that will:
• give them hope
• feed their soul
• offer the right solutions
• Being available when needed  
• Caring enough to share
• Encouraging others in their service

Giving offers great returns on the investment. It doesn’t take a lot to give a little.

Bring It Home

What can you share from the harvest you have been blessed with today?

Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC