4:101 – One Mind. All For All.

#faithbites #faithjourney mind

Setting

As a follower of #faithbites, you know that I am constantly exploring my faith, growing in Christ, and trying to be the best servant of God I can. I struggle often when I see behavior from “good Christians” that don’t match how I interpret the Bible.

In today’s sermon, we read Acts 4:32-35. That passage brought two things that mind for me. First, is all the believers were of one mind. Second, they believed that all their goods and property belonged to each other. They shared everything they had without reservation. I am challenged when I see people fight over God’s word and when I see people against giving to others to help. It seems against the Word of God.

Today’s Questions: What does this passage stir in you? How do you balance dissent in faith and those who seem to act against scripture?

Scripture

Acts 4:32-35 – All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.

33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them.

For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distrtbuted to anyone who had need.

Phillipians 2:2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

Reflection

Let’s face it, we won’t always agree on everything. God has told us that. But often we are told that we should gather with like minded people (Philippians 2:2) and be of one spirit. How can one body of Christ grow and expand when we can’t agree in the basics. God first, others second, me third.

I will be the first to admit that I am not the best at giving of my treasure. I try with my time and talent but fail as well. What can we do, to get back to basics? How do we get away from the me or mine first and give to others?

As we close, the only answer I have is practice through prayer and faith. Ask God how we give better. Practice what he tells you. Pray with a full heart.

Prayer

Father God, you give us instructions to be like minded, love you, and love one another. You are clear that we should take care of others first and give, yet we often fail. We pray for transformation. Change our mind and open our heart to give first. Help us to see your word as the Gospel it is and live in your light. We ask forgiveness and help in your name, Amen.