“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save
him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:14-17)
Daily I see a neighbor helping others: bringing a meal to an elderly shut-in, assisting a single mom with her responsibilities, lending a hand with yard work, and in general, being an exceptional neighbor. He is a beautiful influence and he is not a Christian.
A person does not need the Holy Spirit to make a difference. However, the Holy Spirit empowers a believer to help in the name of Christ, producing His fruit, and pointing people to the Lord rather than
themselves.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works
and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Our faith is meant to make a physical difference; it’s meant to do some good.
The help you give in Jesus’ name is “evidence of things unseen.” (Hebrews 11:1). God, who has revealed Himself through scripture and in the person of Jesus Christ, also reveals His existence through you when you meet others’ needs. In fulfilling a tangible need, a door often opens to minister the compassion and hope of Jesus Christ. The gospel becomes known and meaningful to others through your help.
First John 4 shares that if you “have come to know and to believe the love that God has for [you],” you will love others as you love yourself (Matthew 22:39). When the Son of God walked the earth as a neighbor, he “went around doing good.” (Acts 10:38) In fact, as a believer you have been born again “created in Christ for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for [you] to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
You have been entrusted with God’s love, example, and assignment!
Beyond helping your neighbor, there are numerous ways for you to minister Christ’s compassion at The Point. Our REACH small groups serve local underprivileged and underserved neighborhoods that include refugees. Mission trips are open to join and opportunities to financially support our REACH partners in 13 countries.
Just imagine how God will bless people as you ask Him to highlight your opportunities to love and do good. Look for ways to help. Remember, putting action to those thoughts offers evidence of His love. Your community will be touched by God as you love your neighbors just like Jesus.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation in Jesus Christ and Your Holy Spirit. Please fill me with compassion and make me a vessel of Your love. Shine Your light on the good works you want me to do for Your glory. I want to give others the hope and joy of loving Jesus. Amen.