Why are you here? Did God put you here to have fun and be happy, or could there be a bigger purpose? When you meet new people, do you ask what they can do for you, or what you can do for them?
Twila spoke of this last week. She said something to the effect that God had sent her certain friends not so they would bless her or enrich her life, but maybe so God could use HER in their lives. It was an entirely new way to think about friendships and our calling on earth: it’s not about ME, but THEM.
That is the way I think about relationships. Of course, I have lapses and selfish decisions. But in my deepest thoughts and prayers, I am looking for ways to bless others, to be a light in the darkness.
To be more specific, I have one consideration in mind: will this decision help people accept Christ? Will this action or habit or purchase or activity point people to Jesus? Such an others-centered focus is easy and natural when you spend time sharing your faith. The more you tell others about Christ, the more you hope your ACTIONS will make up for the weaknesses of your words. If evangelism is on your mind, it will cause you to take an inventory of your actions.
When David was successful, he realized God was not blessing David FOR David. God blessed David in order to bless Israel.
“David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had EXALTED HIS KINGDOM FOR THE SAKE OF HIS PEOPLE Israel.” 2 Samuel 5:12.
God blessed David for the sake of God’s people. David was BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING. So are we. When God blesses us, He is giving us an opportunity to bless others with truth and joy and encouragement and hope.
“Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in Heaven” Matthew 5:16.
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Household Words: 