Give to those in need
Scripture references
Acts 4:32–37 (ASV)
32And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and soul: and not one of them said that aught of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. 33And with great power gave the apostles their witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34For neither was there among them any that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35and laid them at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto each, according as any one had need.
36And Joseph, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, Son ...
Galatians 6:2 (ASV)
2Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
Hebrews 13:16 (ASV)
16But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
1 John 3:17 (ASV)
17But whoso hath the world’s goods, and beholdeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his compassion from him, how doth the love of God abide in him?
Stories
When a lady he was with was surprised by Mr. Colson's show of love and compassion to a needy woman he gave money, he simply said to her, "I never let my right-hand know, what my lefthand doth."
Arthur T. Pierson delighted in being the answer to the prayers of others, he was happy to be God's messenger in a time of dire need. In times of plenty or few, he gave joyfully, to meet the needs of others.
Arthur T. Pierson gave money he had been saving to a friend who had an immediate need. Pierson discovered that he who gives to the poor, lends to the Lord, who always repays. Later, when he needed the money, the Lord was faithful to meet his needs through other means.
The demise of Samuel Papanekis left Nancy, his wife, and their children; poor and destitute. When a community of Christian Canadian-Indians learnt about her condition, their own poverty not withstanding; they gave generously to make life more comfortable for Nancy and her children.
George Müller devoted his life to giving for the needy and taking care of destitute children. Even at the evening of his life; after giving up so much of his money for the benefit of others, Mr. Müller counted it an honour to be so used by God, and declared joyfully, "I am not the least tired of this way".
Given the challenge of a paucity of funds, Hudson Taylor wrote in December, to a colaborer of his to brace up and take austere measures, like he personally had, and pray to God to send supply for His work. On new year's eve, the Lord, through George Müller, reached them with a cheering and unexpected token.
Robert Gribble sacrificially gives his last halfpenny to a bigger who came to beg for bread one morning. On another occasion he sends provisions to a brother in need. On both occasions, he was blessed to receive more than he had given.
Lack of funds had prevented Mr. and Mrs. Hsi from taking the gospel to Hwochow, but they continued to pray to God for provision. One night as Mr. Hsi prayed about this very matter, his wife overheard and was led to see that she could be the answer to their prayers. With an obedient and sacrificial heart, Mrs. Hsi, surrendered her choicest garments and jewelry—her only earthly treasures—for the work of God!
Rees Howells was instructed by the Lord to give to a poor man whose rent was due for payment by two years. After initially hesitating, he obeys the Lord and was consequently flooded with so great a joy that he could not contain.
Rees Howells obeyed the Holy Spirit and gave more than he was willing to give to a community of needy people. Driven by the love of God, he became "the first sufferer" for the people; always placing their needs above his.
