Acts 20: 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’
Paul is leaving. He tells the people in the church that they will never see him again. He is concerned about what will happen to them after he leaves. He has many warnings for them about false leaders to come. He ends with this testimony about himself.
Okay, so humility is not Paul's long suit. He believes he has done a very good job. He is sure he knows God's plan for him, and he is sure he has followed it faithfully. I am less sure of that myself. I believe Christ's words, and I am all about helping the weak, but I am one of the weak. I do not always do all I can, and I can descend into the dark side and be demeaning of others.
Prayer: Lord, guide my words and my ways so that I can be sure of my efforts like Paul was. Help me to see the need in Your people, and guide me to words and actions which lift them up. Lead me on a path which Your son would have chosen so that I am blessed by the gifts I have given.
Amen
I think the last sentence should say "have been given."
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