We live in a challenging time. Concern about coronavirus and new health issues, such as monkeypox, is high. Inflation is skyrocketing, social issues are dividing our country, violence and drug use at rampant, and people are concerned about their futures. Yet, in the midst of all the strife and chaos, it is possible to have peace in your hearts and live a life full of purpose.
My sense of peace and purpose come from my relationship with Jesus Christ. As I seek Him and turn to Him in my times of trouble, the Holy Spirit fills me with “the peace that passes understanding.” (Philippians 4:7) I, in turn, have a responsibility to share the love of Jesus Christ with those around me.
Jesus calls His followers to be faithful stewards of that which he has entrusted to us. Faithful stewardship demands that I view all that I have as belonging to God. The resources that I have been given to me by God and are to be used according to His wishes.
Knowing how God wants to me to use those resources requires that I read God’s Word and spend time in prayer. As I do, God will reveal to me His plans and purpose for my life. We know from God’s Word that He intends for us to share our resources with those who are less fortunate than us. So, we give to charitable organizations, such as the Salvation Army and Samaritan’s Purse.
Today, we need to do more than make donations and let someone else take care of the poor and needy. We each must earnestly seek God and His direction.
In the book of 1 Peter 4:7-11, we read about how we can be faithful stewards. This passage is from The Message:
“Everything in the world is about to be wrapped up, so take nothing for granted. Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it. Love makes up for practically anything. Be quick to give a meal to the hungry, a bed to the homeless—cheerfully. Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!”
Give cheerfully and generously. Speak God’s words. Help in the way God directs you.
Be a faithful steward who calls attention to the Lord. Point people to Jesus.
Only through the blood of Jesus Christ can the world find the peace we so loudly claim to desire.
And do all for the glory of God.
Susan's Reflections 