OTHERS

If anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? – 1 John 3:17

Salvation Army General William Booth, though old and blind, was entreated to go from London to the United States to receive commendation from Congress. Unable to make the trip, he sent a letter to be read on the specified day. It contained only one word: “Others.” That was all. It had been his life’s work, serving others. It was what he loved to do.

The apostle James emphatically states that followers of Christ should be “doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). “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” (2:15-17).

Having received the gift of salvation by faith alone, your response to God’s love is to care for others. His love has brought you to this place and, through faith in Christ, God’s love abides in you. Bible theologian H.A. Ironside wrote: “Christianity is intensely practical… The most miserable people are those who are trying to get the best for themselves, while the happiest people are those who give the most, sacrifice the most, and lay out the most for the blessing of others.” Jesus said, “Give, and it shall be given to you” (Luke 6:38). This not only applies to worldly goods, but it is also true of the fruits of the Spirit! God gives abundantly so that His supply may overflow onto those around you.

When the opportunity arises to comfort or serve others, let the Spirit of the Lord lead you as you give aid.