Do not withhold good from those who deserve it
when it’s in your power to help them.
when it’s in your power to help them.
Proverbs 3:27 NLT
Have you ever known you should help someone, but didn't
do it?
Ugh, this is not my favorite thing to think about.
MANY unpleasant thoughts come up.
There were times I could have helped a stranger...a
woman asking for a bus fare in Milwaukee, a homeless man sitting on the corner
near my local Target, and others who smiled at me but I didn't return it.
The times I regret most are not being helpful to the
people I DO know. I'm not going to reveal those details today--I'm confessing
them and asking forgiveness.
I remember withholding out of pure stubbornness. Contrariness.
Selfishness. Feeling like I didn't have enough to give. Not trusting the person
who asked. All self-protective excuses.
Why does this verse convict me so much? Why can't I
just brush it off?
Because I truly want to be more like Jesus.
He didn't refuse help to anyone who asked. He didn't
help EVERYONE around him, and he was God! But he did help those in his path.
Even when he was tired and busy, he kept offering himself to others, and that
is beautiful to me.
I think this verse ties well into a New Testament
scripture:
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live
at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 NIV
Living at peace with others depends on me. I can do my
part to promote peace by offering help that I have ready to give. I want a new,
willing spirit to reside in my heart, one that freely offers goodness, help,
and peace to others.
Questions for you:
What's your initial reaction to today's verse?
Do you have regrets, like I do? What motivations did
you have for withholding good?
Does a certain person come to mind with this verse?
What can you do to help them this week?
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Have a wonderful weekend!
Blessings and God's peace to you,
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