Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone – especially to those in the family of faith.
Galatians 6:10 NLT
Jayne and I have noticed that on social media groups set up across our community, the majority of the messages have an edge directed towards others, known or unknown. An easy opportunity to record criticisms containing personal frustrations with behaviours that are different to what we might prefer. At times, it feels like everyone has adopted complaint as a characteristic.
I have made it my practice to carry my criticism to God and usually repent of a bad attitude. I may not appreciate how another behaves, but their behaviour does not demand I act in a similar way. Having discovered grace for myself, a grace totally undeserved, I really am the last person to accuse another. My primary responsibility is to reflect that grace through my life. One way to do this is by doing good to others. That good begins with reframing how I see them and refusing to enter into judgement. I have been shocked at how instantly harsh I can be. How can I know the circumstances that influence others?
God encourages us to practise goodness. Perhaps we will be misunderstood, but it is the antidote to the cynicism and suspicion that informs so much of social interaction today. The consequence of a loss of goodness may be that we create a society in which trust is lost and every action demands a reason for its enactment. This is the way in which distrust, division is sown, and the devil’s work is done.
Every day we have an opportunity to do and to be good. These may be the smallest actions, like taking initiative in the home for things that are not your responsibility yet are kind and helpful. Starting small builds a habit and opens your eyes to all opportunities.
QUESTION
Where will you start your ministry of goodness?
PRAYER
When I think of all you have done for me, may the overflow of my gratitude spur me on to do good and to be good.