Don't Get Tired Doing Good!

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers" (Galatians 6: 9,10 NIV).

Sometimes, when our own circumstances seem insurmountable, we tend to dwell on our problems and sink into depths of depression, oppressed by those things we cannot control. When we cannot see beyond the next moment, it is difficult to think about the needs of others, but we must.

When we know to do good and don't--it is sin, no matter what our circumstances are. God encourages us in His Word not to focus on our own issues, but to be on the look out to do something for others--especially those who belong to the family of believers. If we really trust Him, we can know with assurance that when we give our problems to Him, He will take care of them-in His timing, not necessarily ours.

So, while we patiently wait for Him to bring to fruition what we need, we can--if we try--see the needs of others and do good, no matter what our own circumstances.

Doing good for others does not necessarily cost money, but it will take time. But how much time does it take to smile or hug? Time used in prayer is never wasted time, and neither is time used to call or write someone to encourage them to stay strong. This is doing good and when we take the time to serve the needs of others, we please God. When God is pleased with us, He responds to our faith in Him.

It's a good time to exercise unconditional faith (resting assured of the outcome--no matter what we see), and do good for someone else who is waiting--for us--for an encouraging word. It won't cost us anything but time. Love--such a wonderful thing--that can shared with anyone, by anyone,, at any time--all the time! Love to love you, today--now get going and do something good!

Waiting!

"Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD" (Psalm 27:14 NIV).

Still waiting for the return of my computer! I'm trying to find other things to keep me busy, to keep my mind off the potential lost of all my work, story ideas, not yet developed, and with my propensity to forget--may never be remembered.

While I wait, I think about how God has waited patiently for us to get living right! He never gave up on us (at least some of us). He knew when we would reach the bottom or end of ourselves and be willing to turn to Him, recognizing that He was just waiting for us!

I can't not speak for others, but from a time of accountability (12 or thereabouts), God had to wait for me--to allow Him to reveal Himself to me. I didn't get it until I was 36 years-old. I mean I knew about God, but I did not know Him--on a personal level. I've given my testimony before so I won't bore anyone with a repeat performance, but I'm so glad He waited for me. I'm sure I missed out on some really great rewards, had I been willing to submit to Him earlier in life, but as they (don't know who "they" is), better late than never.

There is no way--I would ever return to the life I once lived without Him, guiding me. He has been too good to me--even in the middle of chaos, confusion, and loss of family members--for me turn back into the pit that nearly cost me my life.

I can live without all the drama of trying to "be something I was never intended to be" in order to do what He desires for me to do--share the Gospel, encourage others to seek Him and live for Him.

So thinking back about how long He waited for me, I can wait a few more days to get my computer back. At least, I hope it is only a few more days. While I wait, I'll pray, and read, and try to remember all those great story ideas and story maps, already written, but may be lost.

If you're waiting--stay strong and trust in Him. He'll make everything all right!