PODCAST
No Holding Back
July 6th, 2013
Proverbs 3:19-35
When news of disaster comes we often ponder who can we help or who should we help. The writer of this proverb qualifies this admonition by saying, Do good “when it is in your power to act.” When we have the abilities and resources to meet the need, and as Paul wrote: “As we have opportunity” (Galatians 6:10), we are to be especially sensitive to the needs of fellow believers, but with an eye to all persons whether in our circles or not.
Jesus said that if we only do good to those who do good to us, we haven’t risen to the level of love His grace wants to bring us. Our acts of goodness are to be expressed toward those who may be indifferent and even antagonistic toward us. “But I tell you, love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44a). This love may be expressed in more than just material ways. “Do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those mistreat you” (Luke 6:27-28). We cannot hold back until what we deem would be a more convenient time. Let us buy up every opportunity to do good when it is in our power to act.
Author: Ronald Beech
Tags: Compassion
