Acts 2:42-47- And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common….  

When we’re struck by anxious thoughts about our financial provision, it’d be great if we could just wish our predicament away by thinking happy thoughts. Unfortunately, it will take more than that to help us climb out of such mental distress. 

In the latter part of Acts, 2, Paul writes about the early church community. These new believers in Jesus didn’t grasp tightly to their possessions or money. They allowed whatever they had to lay loosely on their outstretched hands. It was all God’s provision in their lives. They didn’t trust in what He gave them; they simply and powerfully trusted in Him as their sole provider. 

So, what can we gain from this passage and others throughout the Bible about finding a remedy for financial anxiety? While there are plenty of ideas, here are two that will truly revolutionize the way we see our financial outlook.

• You Have Something to Give. Impactful groups are comprised of impactful people. Everyone has something to give toward the advancement of God’s Kingdom, but the enemy will try to convince you that you have nothing to contribute. Break free from the poison of comparison and confidently serve others with the gifts and talents God has given you.
• When we sacrificially serve those around us, we are demonstrating the Gospel message. As we serve, it’s important to remember that generosity is God’s design, giving is a group project and everyone has something they can bring to the table!

And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.  And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2:45-47

Just think about the early Church. They continually met together. They sold property and personal possessions so that they could meet needs in their community. It wasn’t about the church building. It was about the people. 

As Jesus-followers, we are the Church. No matter what is happening in the world around us, we are called to lead the way in irrational generosity. We are called to be the Church by loving those around us the way Jesus would. We share with those in need. We stand ready to do what is good. We think of others before ourselves.

Jesus wasn’t selfish. He was sacrificial. He gave up His life so that we could find ours. As His followers, we lead the way—especially in emergencies—by being sacrificial, not selfish. 

“The world asks, ‘What does a man own?’ Christ asks, ‘How does he use it?” Andrew Murray