Do Not Withhold Good

How many times has God given you the opportunity to bless someone?

Proverbs 3:27 NIV

"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act."

As my Holman's Women study Bible says: "Kindness is not an option for the believer, and love is not reserved for those who are within the family circle or who are lovable. Sensitivity to the pain and suffering of others, willingness to spend time and energy and resources in meeting needs - these are Christian virtues."

There are numerous ways we can bless others here's just a few ideas, you may have others:

• Financially support organizations that help others (whether it's a shelter, soup-kitchen, coats for kids, toys for tots etc.)

• Volunteer your time visiting shut-ins, or at church or with other organizations

• Hand out Bibles to those in need

• Create bags for the homeless (include necessities and food)

• Help your neighbor (by mowing their grass or picking up groceries for them)

• Help a widow or widower

• Open a door for a stranger

• Call a friend, or send a letter letting them know you're thinking of them

The list goes on & on, I hope you are encouraged to come up with your ideas and put them into practice. Take a moment to share the outcome with me because I would love to hear about how you are positively impacting those around you!

I believe if we pay close attention, we will recognize these opportunities on a daily basis. So, our challenge is to live in the moment and to be mindful of these opportunities as they arise.

Just imagine how much your life will be enriched by these experiences let alone all the lives God blesses in the process!

Ephesians 2:10 NIV

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Here's a few more Godly reminders!

Colossians 3:17 NIV

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Hebrews 13:16 NIV

"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."

Psalm 37:3 NIV

"Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

Colossians 23-24 NIV

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Philippians 4:13 NIV

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

May we never forget the importance of our roll as being a servant of God and never get tired of doing His will. James 4:17 NIV "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."

Pray and ask God to reveal these opportunities to you so that you can recognize the moments He wants you to bless someone. Friends let's get in the business of blessing others and watch how God blesses you in return!

Galatians 6:9 NIV

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime