MEANINGFUL SHARING WITH THE NEEDY

MEANINGFUL SHARING WITH THE NEEDY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 4:32-37

Key Verse: “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” (Proverbs 19:17)

Supporting Texts: Matthew 25:35-40, James 2:14-17, 1 John 3:16-18, Deuteronomy 15:11, 2 Corinthians 9:7

Description: Sharing with the needy is an expression of true Christian love, a testimony of stewardship, and a key to divine reward.

INTRODUCTION:
The Christian faith is not merely about confession but about action. Genuine love for God is revealed in how we treat others, especially the poor and needy. The Bible makes it clear that our faith without works is dead, and one of the most visible works of faith is meaningful sharing with those in need.

The early church modeled this by ensuring that no one lacked among them. They sold their possessions, pooled their resources, and distributed according to each person’s need. Such practical love created unity, strengthened their witness, and glorified God.

In our time, many live in abundance while others suffer lack. God is calling His children to meaningful, sacrificial, and cheerful sharing. This is not about giving leftovers, but about giving with love, sincerity, and purpose. Such sharing carries eternal value because it is done as unto the Lord.

1. THE BIBLICAL MANDATE FOR SHARING
God’s word commands us to remember the poor and to care for them. Sharing is not optional—it is obedience to divine instruction.

a) God’s command to care for the poor (Deuteronomy 15:11): There will always be poor in the land, and God instructs us to open our hands wide to them.

b) Jesus’ identification with the needy (Matthew 25:35-36): Christ equates kindness to the needy with service to Himself.

c) Expression of God’s love (1 John 3:17): Whoever shuts his heart against the needy does not carry God’s love within him.

d) Fulfilling the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2): Bearing one another’s burdens shows that we are truly following Jesus.

Biblical Example: The early believers in Acts 4 shared all they had, and great grace was upon them.

2. THE ATTITUDE REQUIRED IN SHARING
The value of our giving is determined not only by the act but by the attitude behind it. God is more concerned about the heart than the amount.

a) Giving willingly and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7): God loves a cheerful giver who gives from the heart, not by compulsion.

b) Avoiding pride and showmanship (Matthew 6:1-4): Our giving should be in secret, seeking God’s approval rather than men’s applause.

c) Sacrificial giving (Mark 12:41-44): The widow’s two mites outweighed the riches of others because it came from a place of sacrifice.

d) Sharing sincerely (Romans 12:9–13): Love must be genuine, and hospitality must flow from a sincere heart.

Biblical Example: The Macedonian churches gave generously and joyfully despite their own poverty (2 Corinthians 8:1–5).

3. THE IMPACT OF MEANINGFUL SHARING
Our giving does more than meet material needs—it brings transformation to lives and communities.

a) Meeting real needs (James 2:15–16): Faith is empty when it does not respond to physical needs.

b) Strengthening fellowship (Hebrews 13:16): Sharing deepens unity and fosters brotherly love among believers.

c) Glorifying God (Matthew 5:16): Acts of kindness cause others to glorify our Father in heaven.

d) Attracting divine blessings (Proverbs 11:25): Those who water others will themselves be watered.

Biblical Example: Dorcas (Tabitha) was remembered for her good works and generosity, and God restored her life (Acts 9:36–39).

4. THE REWARDS OF SHARING WITH THE NEEDY
No act of kindness goes unrewarded. God Himself repays those who give to the poor.

a) Divine repayment (Proverbs 19:17): Giving to the poor is lending to the Lord, and He repays abundantly.

b) Eternal treasures (Matthew 6:19–21): Our giving stores treasures in heaven that cannot be stolen or destroyed.

c) Joy of giving (Acts 20:35): It is more blessed to give than to receive.

d) Becoming a channel of blessing (2 Corinthians 9:10–11): God enriches generous givers so they can bless others even more.

Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman who shared with Elisha was rewarded with the miracle of a son and later preservation in famine (2 Kings 4:8–17).

CONCLUSION:
Meaningful sharing with the needy is a divine call and a mark of true Christianity. It proves our faith, reflects Christ’s love, and establishes us as stewards of God’s blessings. Our giving must not be careless or grudging, but purposeful, cheerful, and sacrificial.

Beloved, God is not unjust to forget your labour of love. Each act of kindness has eternal weight and heavenly reward. Therefore, open your heart, stretch forth your hand, and make a difference in the lives of the needy.

PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, give me a compassionate heart for the needy.
2. Deliver me from selfishness and greed.
3. Make me a cheerful and willing giver.
4. Let my resources be used for Your glory.
5. Bless me abundantly so I can be a blessing.
6. Remember me in my own day of need.
7. Let my giving touch lives and transform communities.
8. Preserve me and my family from lack and want.
9. Help me to see Jesus in every needy person I meet.
10. Let my acts of kindness bring souls into Your kingdom.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
1. You shall not lack what to give in the name of Jesus.
2. Your hands shall continually be channels of blessing.
3. Your giving shall open doors of divine remembrance.
4. Men shall arise to help you in your time of need.
5. You shall walk in uncommon favour because of your generosity.
6. The needy around you shall find joy because of your life.
7. Divine abundance shall overflow in your household.
8. Every seed of kindness you sow shall yield a great harvest.
9. Your family shall never beg for bread.
10. Your life shall continually reflect the generosity of Christ.