Monday, September 21, 2015
As many people my age do, I was dwelling this past Saturday on chores and tasks I used to do that don’t come to me as easily as they once did, and although there is some sadness in the fact, those of us who belong to Christ realize that there will always be something we can do in our service to Him. Later, I came across that day’s devotional thought by a favorite pastor and writer of mine, the late Adrian Rogers. His text for the day was: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:10) I took it as God’s confirmation to me as well as a reminder that there is still plenty I can do and that just about all His children will keep on having opportunities until the day He calls them home. This was the last line I wrote on Saturday because as soon as I wrote it, my phone rang and my next opportunity appeared. I am writing the rest of this article today.
I am reminded of the story in the 5th Chapter of Acts where Jesus’ apostles were beaten before being released from prison for continuing to preach His Word to the people. The beating not only did not discourage them, they left the prison rejoicing that God had permitted them to suffer for Jesus’ sake. Perhaps the apostle James had this in mind also when he later wrote that we should count it all joy when troubles and trials of any kind come our way. The particular verse is James 1:2 and I had it fresh in my mind because Pastor Ruben preached a great message about it yesterday in church. The point is that genuine believers find it a privilege and honor to serve God and that is the reason they jump on any opportunity God Gives to do something in His name.
There is no doubt that the main reason God has given all people certain talents and abilities is so that they can share them with others, and every new day is a gift in itself. May we never forget that there are people all around us every day who desperately need the compassion of Christ or help of some sort. May we also see this as our opportunity to do something good for somebody and always be ready when that door is opened to us. Little things such as a smile, a hug, a phone call, a visit, paying someone's food tab, or even a few dollars can do wonders, not only for the recipients but for the givers as well. I hope you’ll take advantage when your next opportunity comes. Even better, perhaps you can go look for one today.
Memory verse for the week: (Matthew 9:36) “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
