By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
1 John 3:16-17
1 John 3:16-17
This scripture is the one Christ has most recently laid on my heart. Lately, He has given me opportunities in my everyday life to do just what this verse commands. Why He is testing me in this area right now, I do not know. But I do know the blessings I have received by doing what He expects of me. Not monetary blessings, not gifts, not the approval of others, nor the praise of people; rather, I have peace and humility and thankfulness for everything in my life. And these gifts are so much better than anything the world or people have to offer. I honestly believe God has a perfect timing for every event and season of life. I think these opportunities and the relevance of this scripture in my life at the moment are more than coincidence. It is the Christmas season!! This nation's time for wanting, spending, and all-evasive materialism. How can I be in want, when I understand I have all I need and more?
My prayer for you and me this season is that we will meditate on this verse and consider all it encompasses. Is there someone in our lives we know is in need yet have not helped when we have more than enough resources to do so? If so, we should honestly question our hearts and ask God to free us from the stronghold our personal resources have on our lives. There is both freedom and priceless blessings in giving. As the holiday of Christmas, the celebration of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ, approaches, we should be asking ourselves the following question: what person in need in my life can I bless?
My prayer for you and me this season is that we will meditate on this verse and consider all it encompasses. Is there someone in our lives we know is in need yet have not helped when we have more than enough resources to do so? If so, we should honestly question our hearts and ask God to free us from the stronghold our personal resources have on our lives. There is both freedom and priceless blessings in giving. As the holiday of Christmas, the celebration of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ, approaches, we should be asking ourselves the following question: what person in need in my life can I bless?
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
Sending lots of love and blessings your way,
Natalie
Natalie
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