Devotional: A Thankful Church Gives
Reflection
When we think about giving, our minds often go straight to finances. And while generosity with our money matters, giving is so much more than that. In Galatians 6, Paul paints a picture of a church that gives in a deeper way—a church that gives themselves to one another.
A thankful church doesn’t just show up for worship; it shows up for each other. It carries burdens, restores the broken, and lifts up the weary. It recognizes that strength is temporary—one day, we will all need someone to help carry us through.
At any given moment, some of us are in a season of strength, while others are in a season of weakness. The strong are called to lift up the weak, not with judgment or pity, but with love and grace. And when our season of weakness inevitably comes, we can trust that others will be there to walk with us. This is what it means to be a church that gives—not just financially, but emotionally, spiritually, and relationally.
But sometimes, we hesitate to give ourselves to others. We worry that we’ll get too involved, that it will cost too much of our time, energy, or comfort. Or maybe we believe that people should just “figure it out” on their own. Paul challenges that mindset. He reminds us that one day, we will be the ones in need. When we carry others, we’re not just helping them—we’re investing in a community that will one day carry us.
The ultimate example of this kind of giving is Jesus. He carried the heaviest burden of all—our sin—so that we could be set free. Because of His sacrifice, we are called to love, serve, and give ourselves to one another.
So, the question is: Are we a church that gives? Not just financially, but relationally? Do we see weakness as something to ignore, or as an invitation to step in and help? A church that gives is a church that looks like Jesus. Let’s be that church.
Scripture
"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." — Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
Questions for Reflection
When have you experienced a season of weakness? Who came alongside you?
Are there people in your life right now who are struggling? How can you give yourself to them in a meaningful way?
Do you find it easier to give or to receive help? Why do you think that is?
How does remembering Christ’s sacrifice shape the way we support others?
Prayer
Father, thank You for placing me in a community of faith. Help me to see those around me who are carrying heavy burdens. Give me a heart that reflects Your love—a heart that doesn’t ignore weakness but steps in to help. Teach me to give not just my resources, but my time, my energy, and my presence. And when my own burdens feel too heavy, remind me that I don’t have to carry them alone. Thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life and for the ultimate gift of Jesus, who carried my greatest burden at the cross. Amen.
Additional Resources
Book: Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer – A powerful look at Christian community and what it means to bear one another’s burdens.
Sermon: The Ministry of Mercy by Tim Keller – A sermon on serving others and carrying each other's burdens (available on Gospel in Life).
Podcast: The Bible Project – The Neverending Party: God and Generosity – A conversation on biblical generosity beyond finances.
