So many times it seems like when we help others it actually helps us more. Whether it’s holding a door open for a person behind you, carrying a package of groceries for someone, or letting another driver merge into traffic in front of you, if our hearts are right, we feel God’s pleasure.
In Joshua chapter one God gives the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh their settlement east of the Jordan River, yet when the rest of the Israelites were crossing over the river to take the Promised Land to the west, Joshua had asked them to help fight on behalf of the other tribes’ lands. Once the others had settled down, they would then be allowed to return to their own property. These brave fighting men readily agreed to cross over and help their brothers. (Josh.1:12-17)
I find this interesting that God wanted them to help their brothers win their land before they settled themselves. He wanted them to put others first.
But isn’t this what Jesus did? Didn’t He put us first?
In 1910, the founder of the Salvation Army, General William Booth, was aging and near the end of his life. He was unable to attend their Christmas convention to encourage the soldiers on their relentless service, especially during the holiday season and during the cold winter months, so he simply sent a one-word telegram to be read. And what was that one word he sent that summarizes their whole mission? “Others.”
That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it? Others?
In a world where some people are simply looking out for themselves, it’s refreshing to see those who are looking out for others. Those who stay a little longer just to help out a co-worker, those who bring meals to the sick, help out the elderly, read to children, or a slew of other types of volunteers — all this is done for the sake of others.
Matt. 7:12 — “So whatever you wish that others would do to you,
do also to them…”
So as we go throughout our day, let’s ask the Lord to show us opportunities to help others. And if we can’t physically, then let’s fight for them with prayer and encouraging words. I believe that when we serve others out of love and not obligation, we express the true heart of Father God.