When was the last time you had something slip away that you wished you could have held on to? It happens far more than we’d like to admit. Even as children, humans hold on tightest to the things that make us happy. We do it instinctively because we know that in this world, the day is coming when seasons will change and we’ll lose what we wanted to keep. That’s not new. It’s how the Ephesian elders felt in Acts 20, as we’ve seen. The Apostle Paul says his farewell to them and “they were sorrowful most of all because … they would not see his face again.”

As sad as it is that losing things, people, and moments is not a new experience, it can also be helpful. We can learn from others. As Luke wrote Acts 20:32-38, I think he wanted us to ask the question: What truth should I cling to when the circumstances I like slip away? As we prepare to get into God’s word together on Sunday, please pray that he would show us truths that transcend circumstances and ground us in hope.

Series: The Book of Acts
Message: 57 – It Is More Blessed to Give Than to Receive
Text: Acts 20:32-38
Julian Freeman
Harvest Bible Chapel
September 28, 2025

I can cling to these truths when what I love slips away:

1. God’s grace will still save (v. 32)

2. My giving is still blessed (v. 33-35)

3. This world is still in need (v. 36-38)