Sharing and competition are opposite ends of the spectrum. Between those two words, there is another characteristic that creeps in. It would be labeled selfishness, which is opposed to sharing.
As we read the Bible, we find models of sharing—sharing food, finances, faith. Several examples come rushing to my mind.
The first was in the town, Zarephath, located north of Israel in present-day Lebanon (I Kings 17:8-16). A widow was down to her last meal. She gathered some sticks to bake the last bit of flour into cakes for her son and herself. The Prophet Elijah asked her not to fear, but first bake him a small cake. Elijah went on to say if you do this, your bin of flour will not be empty, and your cooking oil will not run out. By faith, this widow honored the Lord. She obeyed the Prophet’s instructions. God rewarded her; she didn’t run out of food.
There was in Israel, another poor widow worshipping the Lord (Mark 12:41-44). When it came time to give, this poor lady placed two mites (the equivalent of a few pennies today) in the offering. The insignificant amount of this money was notable only to the Lord. He made a special effort to mention her to his disciples. She placed her entire monetary wealth in the Lord’s hands. It was her livelihood; all she had.
Fast forward to the period after the resurrection of Jesus. Peter and John were going to pray (Acts 3:1-10). Approaching the Temple, a lame beggar asked for money from those who entered. It was Peter who started the conversation by saying, “Look at us.” The cripple man turned his attention to Peter, expecting some financial help. Then Peter explained he had no money, but I’ll give you what I have. “Rise up and walk,” Peter then extended his helping hand. The man stood and entered the Temple joyfully as he walked. He was praising God of heaven.
The above three examples have a common theme, and that is sharing. It’s not about wealth, but is about heart and obedience. It’s about honoring the Lord with what you have. It’s not the number of possessions, but following the leadership of the Lord. Wherever God leads you, He always provides. Even in desperate times, especially in the valleys of want. He brings to fruition the prayers of faith for His glory. Regardless of the circumstances, God always notices when you put Him first. He will never forget your effort to make Him prominent in your life. No, never.
