Helping the Weak

Acts 20:33-35 “I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. 34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
 
OF the many sins Paul could speak against, why did Paul say specifically to the Ephesus elders, “I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing.” To covet is to desire another’s possessions such as home, vehicle, money or occupation. Wouldn’t it be understood that one such as Paul, who so passionately preached Jesus’ gospel, would be content?
   Paul likely struggled – or even continued to struggle – with wanting what others had. He wrote in Romans 7 of his struggles with sin, and he pointed to coveting in Romans 7:7 For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “Do not covet.”
   It was a natural battle in his heart to desire others’ silver or gold. He grew up in a successful home. His Roman citizenship and education offered him physical comforts. In his former life. As a Pharisee, one goal in his life would have been to gain as much material possessions as possible.
   Coveting affects us all. People, tribes and nations strive after others’ possessions, and there is no peace. Discontent disconnects us from God and destroys far too many relationships.
   Remember, as Paul said goodbye to the Ephesus elders, he was essentially instructing and encouraging them to righteousness in their lives and in their work. He knew they would be tempted in their position of authority to seek wealth. That, sadly, is what rulers do. In contrast he wanted Jesus’ teachers to be content as Jesus showed us.
   He also wanted them to model Jesus’ diligence. Paul was a tentmaker who supplied (his) own needs and the needs of (his) companions. Paul did not consider himself too important to do physical labor. We generally pay little attention to Jesus’ life as a carpenter, which included working with stone. Jesus teaches us good work is a good thing for mankind. Genesis 2:15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Be diligent to labor and care for the Lord’s physical and spiritual kingdom as the Lord directed and demonstrated.
   Paul also encouraged the elders to serve as Jesus served and taught. One is blessed when she gives to others. To give is to turn selfish coveting into selfless service.
   Be content with what you have. Be diligent to your physical and kingdom work. Be servant-hearted to help others as you are able.