August 27, 2022 -- Hebrews 13:16 -- That which is pleasing to God

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
Hebrews 13:16 ESV

Such a simple command. Attached to it is the great promise that doing good to others and sharing—these activities are sacrifices which are pleasing to God. The letter to the Hebrews is heaped full of the blessings of God, given in Jesus, that are poured out on the life of believers. In view of the great riches given us in Christ, we are from this overflow, to bless others.

Sharing what you have keeps you from the sins of greed and hoarding. Sharing what you have requires you to know your neighbours’ needs. Sharing is not indiscriminate, it is based on the awareness of the resources others have and what they lack and helping them in the areas where they are lacking. It requires tack, kindness and humility in giving so the one receiving doesn't feel inferior as if receiving a condescension. We too were beggars, hopeless and helpless until the mercy of God rained down on our lives.

Doing good to others is possible no matter how rich or poor one is. When you are following Jesus, you are following Him Who was an itinerant preacher while He was on earth. He had no home. No where to lay His head. No bank account. You realize this, the same Spirit Who was given to Jesus without measure is the Spirit given to you, His follower. That Spirit Who enabled Jesus to be content in all circumstances and serve God is the same Spirit Who lives in you, Jesus' disciple. Therefore, it is the Spirit within you Who enables you to share: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Tomorrow is Sunday. Prepare for worship by asking God the Father for His Spirit to light up your heart and show you any lingering sins which would hinder your communion with God. Pray for preachers and missionaries who preach the word so that it will go out with power declaring the beautiful Name of Jesus Christ—the Savior and Captain of Salvation. Pray that you will be able to recognize the opportunities which God is giving you to do good and share with others.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Thank You for the riches You have given us in Jesus Christ and You have sealed to us by Your Spirit. Show us how to serve the neighbours we have from You. Help us to live in such a way that our lives are pleasing to You. Amen.

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