Believer’s in the first century:
A financial collection was gathered to meet the needs of other followers of Christ.

Did those who contribute know each other?  Probably not.
Did those who contribute know the ones to whom they were sending money?  Probably not.

People from many churches were asked to give generously as they were able and the combined offering would be sent to suffering Christian brothers and sisters in Jerusalem.

When you give money, time or items to meet others needs – do you always know them?  When you receive money, time or items from others – do you always know the givers?

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 9:12 “For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God.”

When followers of Christ give financially, as we are able, to meet the needs of God’s people – at least two things happen:

1-a combined gift from many believers fully supplies the needs of suffering Christians.

2-overflowing thanksgiving is given to God.

God works in the hearts and minds of His people to meet the needs of His children who are suffering.
God hears and answers prayer – thank Him.

~ Take it to heart ~

Believer’s in the 21st century:
(NASB) Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

God works to fully supply my needs and He may use others to do just that.

God works to fully supply others needs and I need to do my part.

God is to receive overflowing thanksgiving for His work in my life and in the lives of others.