"Do not withhold good from those who need it, when you have the ability to help." Proverbs 3:27 NET
My long-time friend, Shannon, not only loves running but loves finding good deals. So you can imagine her surprise when she found two pairs of Hoka running shoes, one pair new and one pair nearly new, at a local thrift store for $8 each. Even though they weren't her size, she felt compelled to buy them anyway-just sure someone needed them. And someone did need them. It "just so happened" that a woman approached her after she checked out and said she had been looking for a pair of HOKAs in that exact size but couldn't find them. Sensing that money was the issue, Shannon said, "Oh good-here you go" and handed over both pairs as the grateful recipient began to cry.
And while some might define this deed as a random act of kindness, there was nothing random at all about it. You see, random implies that this deed was irregular and not the norm. But if you know Shannon, you would know that she's always looking for opportunities to bless others (this is her norm). And as Christians, shouldn't this be our norm as well? Of course! In fact, the Bible tells us that when you and and I "have the ability to help.. those who need it" we should do it without hesitation and at every chance we have.
So if you have the occasion to do something kind and good for someone today, don't wait my friend. Because as Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."
And while some might define this deed as a random act of kindness, there was nothing random at all about it. You see, random implies that this deed was irregular and not the norm. But if you know Shannon, you would know that she's always looking for opportunities to bless others (this is her norm). And as Christians, shouldn't this be our norm as well? Of course! In fact, the Bible tells us that when you and and I "have the ability to help.. those who need it" we should do it without hesitation and at every chance we have.
So if you have the occasion to do something kind and good for someone today, don't wait my friend. Because as Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."
Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that one small act of kindness has the power to lead someone to the foot of the Cross. Help us to be open and obedient to the Spirit's nudging that we might not miss an opportunity to do good to someone in need. Let the change this world needs start with us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Let it start with me - No other Name
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