What Good is That?
You may be the only face and trace of Jesus that some people will ever see. Many aren’t willing to read the Bible, but they will read you. What story are you reciting in your response to them? Standing in a supermarket line, or in the breakroom at your job, the marks of hurting people present an opportunity to reach out and show God’s love and healing power.
When we love by responding to the practical needs of people we encounter, they will come to know God by His provision through our hands. The Bible says that without those deeds, our faith is benign, ineffective, and pointless.
“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:14-17, NIV)
God created us to perform good deeds. The Holy Spirit feeds us the words and answers that will minister spiritually, without neglecting the physical needs of those we come in contact with. You have a function in the body that benefits believers, but also impacts the lives of those who desperately need to see that Jesus is alive and God is real. He places them in your path.
Many aren't willing to read the Bible,
but they will read you.
People are hurting everywhere, right under our noses. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own little world we ignore the signs. Not one encounter you’ll have today will be a chance meeting. Not one.
Think about that. Before you leave the house in the morning (or have a virtual meeting), consider your neighbors, co-workers, friends, and strangers. There is life-changing potential in every interaction, and you are the person God chose to administer it. You have what it takes.
Lord, thank You for giving me gifts and talents and resources to share with those around me. Help me not take your blessings for granted. Keep my eyes open for opportunities to serve others and share Your love and goodness with the world. Thank You for Your compassion and care. Make me more like You.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
