And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. (Acts 2:44-45 NLT)
There is a TV show that has become popular recently. The one I am talking about is called 'Hoarders.' Hoarding is a type of compulsive behavior which, in extreme cases, is a form of mental illness. Those of us whose houses are merely cluttered can watch an episode of Hoarders and feel better about ourselves. The reality is that most Americans have TOO MUCH STUFF.
There is no hard and fast rule as to when collecting becomes hoarding. The question to ask yourself is how hard is it for you to let go of your possessions? The first century Christians shared their possessions with those who needed them. Jesus taught us that if we have two of something, give the spare away.
And yet, their activities went beyond giving their possessions away. Sometimes folks need money. After all, you can't pay your heating bill with someone's spare coat. The early Christians also sold their spare possessions and gave the money to those who needed it.
If I know someone who needs money, and I have it, I might give them the money to cover their need. But how likely am I to put a rocking chair up on eBay and give them the money from that, or the extra car that has been sitting in the garage for a few years now?
Jesus wants us to be the master of our possessions and not the slave of them. People are more important than possessions. Who or what is important to you?
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