By Reverend J. Loren Russell
Hebrew 13:16 GNB
“And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.”
Doing good and sharing with those in need is always the right thing to do. It is natural for us to want to help others when they are in need even though it may require us to make a sacrifice in order to do it. We join organizations, become involved in civic activities, and engage in many other endeavors to be helpful to people who are less fortunate than ourselves. Some of us work at occupations that require us to do good and share. That’s not by accident. We are in those areas of work because we feel that we have been compelled, such as the medical field.
No doubt the act of doing good things for others has intrinsic value. It is universally known that whenever we do virtuous acts for others and share with those who are in need, we not only impact their lives, but we feel good about ourselves as a result. Most of us have a favorite charity that we contribute to who are charged with the duty of providing resources to those in need. Personally, I am involved in several organizations that go to great lengths to better the lives of others and distribute needed resources locally, nationally, and internationally to those in need. They seek to spread those resources where they are most needed and provide the best benefit.
Unselfish acts such as these are performed by virtually everyone. Each of these individual acts of kindness demonstrates our innate desire to help others, and our passion to share what we have with those in need. With few exceptions, doing good and sharing with those in need has been built into our DNA.
Yet, there is a higher and more profound purpose associated with doing good and sharing with those in need. Verse 16 in the scripture text from the letter to the Hebrews, points the readers in the direction of God. The writer says that God is well pleased when good is done and sharing takes place with those in need. Our acts of doing good and sharing with those in need has a three-fold benefit; the recipient is aided, we feel good about ourselves, and most importantly, the Lord is pleased.
If there is a takeaway from this article, let me suggest that each of us determine to assist and benefit others through our giving, which will not only make us feel good, aid the recipient, but will also please God. Let me remind you that the Bible also says, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Galatians 6:7).” So, feel free to do good and share!
Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting; an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx; creator & host of “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM on Facebook LIVE and author of Matters of Faith: The Book (eBook available at Smashwords)
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