The early believers expressed the reality of their common life in Christ by practicing a community of goods. Instead of selfishly holding on to personal possessions, they looked upon their property as belonging to all the fellowship. Whenever there was a need, they would sell lands or houses and bring the proceeds to the apostles for distribution. It is important to see that they distributed whenever a need arose; it was arbitrary equal division at one particular time.
ACTS 4:32
All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. (NIV)
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. (KJV)
And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. (NASB)
Commentary: Believers understood that all they had belonged to God, and therefore when a brother or sister had a need those who could meet it were obligated to do so (cf. James 2:15, 16; 1 John 3:17). The method was to give the money to the apostles who would distribute it (vv. 35, 37).
I received daily devotions and scriptures by email. When all this happened with our home, I knew there would be an outpuoring of love shown to us. Being the worry wart that I am I prayed that god would give me an attitude of the love and acts of kindness and not self pity. I received this email on wednesday, the day we went to look at our new home. Doesn't God work mysteriously?
God has taught me to accept things as there are, if we do not accept the things that people want to do for us then we are robbing them of their blessings from the lord. If someone wants to do something for you, let them so you won't rob them of the blessings God has for them for giving of themselves.
Our preacher told us the morning after this happened that people would pour out their love to us and that we needed to accept it with a receiving heart. Don't feel guilty when people want to help. We will never be able to repay everyone for everything they have done and continue to do but God will give us that chance to give back to others and be a blessing.
Be a blessing to someone today, God will truly bless you in return.
Truly blessed,
Lisa
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4 comments:
Praising Him for what He did in your life this week -
Love ya!
Kim
Girl, I know you are busy but we miss you bloggin! Get in that spare bathroom and log on that laptop! Lock the door! :)
We miss you!
Kim
Thanks for the birthday wishes girl!! I'm praying for ya'll!
I know what it's like to have to "receive" and it's harder than people think. But I'm glad the Lord revealed to you to receive and be blessed! It's nothing but our pride that keeps us from receiving joyfully!
Keep us "posted"!
V
Praising God for all your blessings that he is placing upon you all during this time!!! Have a great day!!
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