https://odb.org/2024/03/22/next-step-of-love
I think one of the few things we can not avoid as a Christian is love since God is love. Thus, Jesus loved us. That’s why He died for our sins to reconcile us back to God the Father. There is no greater love than a man who lays down his life for another (John 15:3).
But in 1 John 3, John emphasised love in action – what is the next step in love? He wrote about the need to help those in need in love, and that requires generosity in heart and deed. It is easier to do and manage if we have the attitude that all that we have is ultimately because of God, and it is His blessings. Thus, God will use what He blesses us with to bless others. We become His instruments of blessings. As I postulated yesterday, the LORD will help those who help others: https://ronnielim.com/2024/03/21/god-helps-those-who-help-others/.
As we grow in faith and in maturity in Christ, more will be demanded from our lives. We can not live out faith in isolation or be a Christian only in church. Our faith is part and parcel of who we are in the family, at work, in church, and everywhere. That’s why God exhorted Joshua to be strong and of good courage as He will be with Joshua wherever he goes (see Joshua 1:9). God is everywhere, and He is in us. Wherever we are, He is there with us, inside us and with us. In His presence and His power and glory.
Do good and help others. That’s the commandment and instruction. An extrapolation of to love your neighbour as yourself. That’s not only a characteristic of a believer but the goal and mission of a Christian as we pass through this earth as a sojourner, a pilgrim on our way to eternity. Never leave a trail of destruction, misery, and sadness. But always leave behind a heritage of good deeds and love in action, of the everlasting grace and mercy of God and His abundant love. Amen!
Ronnie's Thoughts 