Distributing to the Necessity with Our Holiness

Examining Scripture:

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

Evaluating Soil:

We all know people with needs. They live next to us, are related to us, work with us, eat with us, wait on us, fix things for us, take care of us, depend on us, hang out with us, and generally do life with us. We could spend 24/7 distributing to their needs. Truth is, we’re all needy in some way.

However, the distribution and hospitality we are instructed to exhibit in Romans 12:13 is referencing a specific group of people referred to as “saints.” This is not just anyone we come in contact with. This hospitality is more focused.

Let’s look at the Greek definitions of the key words found in the Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:

Distributing – Greek #2841 – koinōneō
to share with others

Necessity – Greek #5532 –chreia
employment, that is, an affair; also…occasion, demand, requirement or destitution

Saints – Greek #40 –hagios
sacred (physically pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially consecrated)

Given – Greek #1377 – diōkō
to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication to persecute: –

Hospitality – G5381 – philonexia
From G5382; hospitableness: –

When we lay aside any familiarity we have with the words from this verse, we can open our hearts to a deeper understanding of what it means to provide for the needs of the “saints:”

Experiencing Seasons:

Sometimes, it seems easier to be hospitable to people we don’t know, than to help people who sit in the pew next to us, especially when they look like they have it all together. Sadly, they may look strong enough to make it on their own, but that’s not always the case.

I’m learning that many Christians, who seem secure and strong physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and financially, are often carrying great burdens.  They may be hiding illnesses and spiritual struggles, or be mentally overwhelmed, emotionally distraught, and struggling to make ends meet. But, because they would rather go than send, give than receive, and comfort than be comforted, their needs get overlooked.

Burdens are heavy and shouldn’t be carried alone. We weren’t meant to serve in our churches and communities at the cost and neglect of our earthly and spiritual families.

Embracing Solace:

God wants us to share his solace to encourage others in their spiritual lives and service. It’s much easier to live in holiness when your heart is comforted.

Enjoying Simplicity:

This specific hospitality goes hand in hand with helping Christians. We can’t simply address the spiritual needs of our communities without showing concern for the spiritual needs of the church.

Employing Solutions:

Yes. Hospitality is a great community service and one way to live out our holiness. When we live righteously, we’re examples of Christ and His love to the world. However, those who strive to live holy lives also need comfort, love, and hospitable acts of service too. We can assist by:

• Distributing what is required for an occasion
• Helping them with employment needs
• Helping them get their affairs in order
• Helping them out of destitute situations
• Hosting a gathering with or for them

Holiness isn’t just living pure, moral, and religious lives for God alone. We are to provide for each other so that the work of God can continue without losing the Christians we sit next to along the way. We serve our Creator by serving the needs of His Children in love and holiness.

Bring It Home

What are some ways you distribute to the needs of other Christians?

Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC