Helping Those Living In A Broken World And Fulfilling God’s Word
OPENING PRAYER:
Lord, help me to look for ways to help others who are struggling in their lives, that I may be a light in the world.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12: 6-13 NIV
REFLECT:
In his writing to the Romans, Apostle Paul lays out directions for Christians. He talks about gifts and how to use them. This is a way for Christians to be able to reach those in the world who need to hear his word. But it is easy to overlook the needs that others have in the world around us. We may have the belief that it will be handled “by others.” Or that they brought their troubles on themselves. But time and time again, the Bible teaches Christians to give of themselves and what God has blessed them with.
APPLY:
For some, that is something as simple as being a friend to someone who is struggling with addiction or a failing relationship. For others, it is acts of service for those who cannot do things for themselves. It is all a way to carry out his mission of walking alongside one person at a time.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (PHILIPPIANS 2:3-4) Amen