THRIVE THOUGHT
God's Kingdom—the Wisdom of Giving to Others
Luke 6:30 says “Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back” (NIV).
Jesus’ kingdom principle reflects the wisdom of Solomon in Proverbs 3:27-28:
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you’ — when you already have it with you” (NIV).
Jesus calls his followers to look for opportunities to serve, give, and share with their neighbor. In each case, Jesus focuses upon the heart attitude in seeking true benefit for others and our communities. Have you paused this week to notice the opportunities and needs around you? Or has the focus been primarily on your next activity, need, or desire? How is God calling you to reflect his upside-down kingdom in loving others by putting them first?
Erica Smith lives with her husband, J.R., and children Jeremiah and Eva in Fort Wayne, IN. She has spent her career in the financial services industry and is actively involved with Pathway Community Church’s Thrive Ministry.
God's Kingdom—the Wisdom of Giving to Others
Luke 6:30 says “Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back” (NIV).
Jesus’ kingdom principle reflects the wisdom of Solomon in Proverbs 3:27-28:
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you’ — when you already have it with you” (NIV).
Jesus calls his followers to look for opportunities to serve, give, and share with their neighbor. In each case, Jesus focuses upon the heart attitude in seeking true benefit for others and our communities. Have you paused this week to notice the opportunities and needs around you? Or has the focus been primarily on your next activity, need, or desire? How is God calling you to reflect his upside-down kingdom in loving others by putting them first?
Erica Smith lives with her husband, J.R., and children Jeremiah and Eva in Fort Wayne, IN. She has spent her career in the financial services industry and is actively involved with Pathway Community Church’s Thrive Ministry.
Posted in Thrive Thought
Categories
Recent
True Vine Tuesday: Why Adoption?
June 15th, 2026
Thrive Thought: Investing Toward Service and Future Generosity
June 8th, 2026
True Vine Tuesday: More Than A Garage Sale
May 15th, 2026
Thrive Thought: When the Honeymoon Ends… and the Budget Begins
May 13th, 2026
True Vine Tuesday: Why I Serve as a CASA
April 20th, 2026