In May when we bought a few small seedlings to plant in our garden boxes, I never dreamed the output of produce would be so great. We added herbs, peppers, seed packets, and, on a whim, two fledging cucumber plants to the shopping cart at Home Depot. As we planted the drooping cucumber plants, I wondered if they would survive the week. I hoped that the plants would produce one or two cucumbers.
The plants began to grow and cucumber vines spread throughout the garden box, dangling over the edges, and flowing onto the surrounding rocks. I celebrated the bright yellow flowers and dreamed of a few cucumbers.
Since then, the two plants have produced over 50 vibrant cucumbers, and I see even more cucumbers developing. With delight this summer I have headed to the garden to harvest these delicious vegetables. I experimented making pickles and plan to refine the recipe to make some more this week. The cucumbers add crunch and a light taste to tossed salads, pair well with ranch dip, and even grill tastily on the barbecue.
One thing I love most about such an abundant crop is the ability to share with neighbors, friends, and family. Being able to give away the yield from the cucumber plants stirs my soul in fun and unique ways. When I give away these vegetables, my heart feels full and free. Seeing faces brighten with eagerness to receive the produce spurs me on to share more.
Share – To give a portion of something to another or others.
Scripture says quite a bit about the practice of sharing. In the Old Testament sharing in the Feasts of the Lord not only distinguished Israel as God’s people, reminding themselves and the surrounding nations of God’s interaction with His people, but also provided opportunities to meet the needs of others. Through the offerings and sharing, people experienced God’s care, provision, and attention.
In the New Testament, Jesus told stories like the Good Samaritan and the Rich Fool to signify the importance of sharing with others. Jesus’ words and activities pointed to His high esteem of sharing what one has (the widow’s offering, the feeding of the 5,000, and the last supper). And, best of all, Jesus exemplified sharing by giving His life for the salvation of humankind.
The apostle Paul recounted Jesus words that ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35). Paul remembered Jesus’ encouragement and teaching about sharing (John 21:25). Something powerful occurs when we give. The Bible records many verses and examples of the significance and impact of sharing with others.
What is your favorite Bible story about sharing? In what ways does Scripture stimulate you to give and share with others?
Consider the ways God shares with us – – –
God brightens the world with His creativity. He sustains us with oxygen, food, and water. He initiates life to the full with Him. He invites us to know Him as Friend, Savior, Healer, and Redeemer. He gives us talents and abilities reflecting His wisdom and knowledge. He bestows the gift of friendship, family, and community into our lives. He guides and directs us through the gift of the Holy Spirit. He teaches our hearts and minds through Scripture. He welcomes us into our eternal heavenly home. God shares His steadfast, extravagant, and unfailing love.
Take a moment to ponder the ways God shares with you. What are some other ways God shares with you? Thank Him.
What happens when we share? – – –
When we share, we experience freedom from holding too tightly to the gifts of God. When we share, we surprise others with God’s blessing. When we share, we walk in Christlikeness, giving as God gave. When we share, we grow in the virtue of generosity. When we share, we invite others into relationship and connection. When we share, we meet the needs of others. When we share, we celebrate the goodness of God. When we share, we inspire others to share what they have. When we share, we declare dependence upon God’s provision and care. When we share, we unite our hearts with the heart of God. When we share, we bring glory to God and magnify His name.
God models for us the practice of sharing. Ask God to bring to mind what you have to share. Maybe take an inventory of God’s gifts to you, both material and immaterial. What can you share with others? Have fun extending the love of God through all that He has given to you.
I feel excited to continue sharing the produce from our garden. I don’t see any pumpkins yet, but there are a lot of flowers, so I am hopeful. I desire to live life generously with all of God’s gifts and His grace in my life. Will you live generously with me? I want to walk in the way of Jesus and share with others the goodness of God. Will you share God’s goodness with others?
This week – – –
Read the story of story of the lame man in Acts 3:1-10 – Pay attention to what Peter and John shared. We all have something to share; what can you share with others? Take note of the impact on the lame man. In what ways can your sharing affect and influence others? Read the story again, being curious with God. What might God want you to pay attention to? How does this impact the way you live? Let God guide you in His love.
Reflect on the biblical account when Jesus fed over 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21) – Notice the perspectives of the disciples, the young boy, Jesus, and the crowd. How does sharing come into view through this text? What does God invite you into through this example of sharing? In what ways might God multiply your sharing?
Share this week. Ask God to give you His eyes for living generously. How can you share your personality, experiences, faith, possessions, and presence with others this week? Select at least one person to be generous toward. Notice what stirs within you as you share.
Time to go check the garden… 🥒 Let’s share and magnify God.
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Drips from the Word: Muse about these Bible verses. Let these truths impact your living.
Hebrews 13:16 – And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
1 Timothy 6:17-19 – Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
Splashes from the Spigot: Drink from deep wells. Read these recommended books to fill your soul.
Terry Wardle. Every Breath We Take: Living in the Presence, Love, and Generosity of God.. Abilene, TX, 2015.
Ken Blanchard and S.Truett Cathy. The Generosity Factor: Discover the Joy of Giving Your Time, Talent, and Treasure. Grand Rapids, MI, 2010.
Sprinklings of Truth: Soak in meaningful songs. Check out these music videos to lift up your spirit.
Hillsong United. I Surrender. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4N2ausO6Sw
Chris Tomlin Gifts from God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfLGfuINnG4
Puddles for Prayer: Thank you for praying for upcoming travel and speaking engagements.
September 13 – Breathe Retreat, Littleton, CO.