There is no way for us to outgive God. We are truly more blessed when we give than when we receive. For years people who are hurting emotionally have been advised to do some volunteer work, to help other people, in order to heal. We cannot bless others without being blessed ourselves. But this should be a by-product of ministry, not its primary motivation.
Why should Christians minister to other people? Jesus commanded it, and that is reason enough. He told us over and over to love others, and He Himself was a model for how to do it. He had compassion for people and met some of their greatest needs. However, even Jesus didn't heal every sick person when He was on earth. He ministered to those in His path. Pastor Mat Nail has a very helpful quote, "Do for one what you wish you could do for all." Lest we become overwhelmed to the point of paralysis by the tremendous need in the world, we can be encouraged and directed by Mat's words and Jesus' example to do what we can where we are for the people we meet.
But our foremost motive for ministering to others should be because God lavishes His love on us. When we love God with deep gratitude for His goodness to us and allow the Holy Spirit to love others with God's love through us, we will just naturally pass it on!
Father, I am so grateful for all the many ways You minister to me. May I be a conduit for Your love and ministry to be passed to those You bring into my life. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment