Let’s do good to one another

“So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God’s family with you, the believers].” (Galatians 6:10; Amplified)

In Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life, Chuck Swindoll tells the story of a group of children who had worked hard on a special clubhouse that would be their very own — a place to play games, have “meetings,” and laugh.  Of course, if you have a clubhouse, you have to have club rules.  So they thought long and hard, and came up with three:

1. Nobody act big.
2. Nobody act small.
3. Everybody act medium.

Actually, there is some pretty good Biblical truth in those rules — don’t think too much of yourself, but by the same token, don’t think to little of yourself (after all, you have been created in the image of God and as a believer are indwelt by the Holy Spirit who is producing His fruit in you and through you).  So, just be yourself, and be the best you possible — be all that God has created you to be.

And in this verse we find one of the things God has intended us to be.  It is God’s intention for me to be used in the church to meet the needs of others.  And it is His intention to have others meet my needs.

What are those needs?  Sometimes it is something physical — a meal, a financial gift, assistance with a car repair project — but most often it is something that will be good for them spiritually.  And just what might that be?  First Thessalonians tells us that as well – “And we urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all men” (5:14).  Do you wish to meet another’s need?  Find someone who is struggling with sin and humbly instruct him and call him back to the faith (cf. Gal. 6:1-2).  Find someone who is spiritually tired and recall for him the great truths and promises of the faith that will embolden him.  Find someone who is a spiritual infant and disciple him so that he will be strengthened in his faith.  And whoever you find, be patient and forgiving with them (just as God is with you).

This verse also points out another truth that we miss too often.  Be intentional in providing blessing to others.  Don’t merely wait for someone to “cross your path” before doing good, but at the beginning of your day or week, intentionally make it your objective to seek a particular person to provide a spiritual blessing to him.

You know those notes of encouragement you were planning to write?  Do it today.  Remember that friend you were going to call?  There’s no time like the present.  Did you see that family that visited your church on Sunday morning?  Contact them and do something to welcome them into the church family.  Do you know a single parent?  He or she could probably use a baby-sitter to get some errands done.  Why don’t you call?  How about that friend that told you about a spiritual struggle he’s having?  An encouraging email or note would probably be well received, as would a phone call to pray with him, asking God to give him needed spiritual strength.

All these are simple ways to demonstrate, “I am committed to you as a brother in Christ.  I love you.”  And that is important, because it is in God’s house — His family of believers — that we most vividly demonstrate the truth of God’s love living in us.