The Almost Forgotten Beatitude

Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Acts 20:35

Acts 20:35 gives us an almost forgotten beatitude. It was spoken by Jesus but not recorded by Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. The apostle Paul knew of it, however, and recalled it in Acts, thus preserving it for us in Scripture.

Acts 20:35 gives us a super-beatitude. There are many beatitudes in the Bible that begin with the words “Blessed is” or “Blessed are.” But only once in the Bible does the phrase “more blessed” occur. This verse tells us how to go beyond blessing to greater blessing.

Acts 20:35 gives us a double blessing. First, there is the blessing of receiving, which is a very “me-like” thing. God created us as recipients. He is the Source, the Supply, the Endless Provider who gives universal blessings, daily blessings, and spiritual blessings.

But there is one blessing greater than receiving. It’s the blessing of giving. Why is it more blessed to give than to receive? When we receive, we’re acting like ourselves, but when we give, we’re acting like God. Receiving is me-like. Giving is Christ-like.

Have you experienced God’s almost forgotten, super, double blessing today?

Never forget that at the very heart of the Gospel is the whole principle of giving.

STEPHEN OLFORD^a