Passage of the Day:
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-25.
Reflection:
When I moved to South Carolina in 2022, I never realized how much junk that I accumulated over 25 years of living in the same house. Rather than looking for opportunities to give valuable possessions away to the needy, I became a selfish hoarder. Following my father’s death a few weeks ago, I started going through their garage. Between fishing and golfing supplies, it was overwhelming. Instead of dying with the most toys, make an effort to search for charitable moments to give to the less fortunate.
Prayerful Action:
All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need, Acts 2:44-45.
Preparing Your Fields to Bear Spiritual Fruit:
According to a first century historian, the term Christians originated in Antioch as the members of this church emulated the life and practices of Jesus, Acts 11:26. Followers of Jesus who started churches throughout Europe and the Middle East eliminated poverty according to Luke. Rather than limiting their family to blood relatives, early Christians saw their brothers and sisters in Christ as family. If modern-day believers develop a similar mindset, you will seize the opportunities that God gives you daily to be charitable.
Song of the Day:
After returning to South Carolina from my father’s funeral, my wife and I decided to start get ridding of excess possessions now so that our children won’t be overwhelmed when we pass. May the lyrics of today’s song inspire you to start giving possessions away as opportunities arise.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 