Do Good!

Do Good!

‭‭Hebrews 13:16 AMP‬‬

[16] Do not neglect to do good, to contribute [to the needy of the church as an expression of fellowship], for such sacrifices are always pleasing to God.

Again, the target audience matters for any message or directive given. At the top of the chapter from where today's verse is taken, you read the words: 'brothers and sisters'. There is a common affinity by the blood of Jesus, where all who have come to the saving knowledge of Jesus become related by blood. That which binds us is stronger than anything that may divide us. From different races and cultures, we come into the family of God. From different backgrounds and experiences, we come into the family of God, where there is no discrimination based on possessions, position or earnings. The early church in the book of Act gives us a picture of the ideal by God's standards. None had too little and none had too much. Those who had a lot brought what was not needed to be shared to those in need. How different our lives would be today if we could find that place of surrender again today. 

How pleasant the message of Christ would be if we could reflect such love and care for people around us. Today's verse is a reminder of the standard. Several years would have passed between the events of the book of Act and this letter in Hebrews, yet the message and the demand remain the same. Just as the early church had needs, so does the present church have needs. Just as the members at that time understood what was required of them, so does God again remind us today of what is really important. Just as the church then was the place of succour and support, so does God expect the present church to be the same. I must not get so caught up in daily life that I forget to do good. Sometimes, it will not be about money, but it could be an investment of time, a shoulder to cry on, a bed to sleep in or a hot meal or even a cold drink. 

Fellowship is God's prescription for reminding us that we are part of a family and what one part has is what another part needs. By working together, the entire body functions as it should, and no part is stressed. These are the types of sacrifices that please God: when I can see beyond what I want now and focus on what another person needs at a particular time. As I do this, God will always raise someone who will also be able to supply whatever it is I need. Seeking the good of other people first, whilst ignoring yours will not come easy, and that is why they are called sacrifices. Am I someone God can entrust with the riches of His grace? Can He entrust me with the lives of people, sure that I will use His provision to be a blessing to His church? Remember, pleasing God must be the ultimate desire for His children. Am I one?  God's time of favour is here.