Does not Jesus have the right to ask us that question? True followers of Jesus seek to serve Him and honor their Lord with their thoughts and actions. Our love for other people, especially other believers and those in need, is what displays our love for our Savior. In many of Jesus’ teachings He encourages His followers to meet the needs of others! Matthew 6:2 tells us “when you give to the needy,” giving us the expectation that giving to those in need is a regular occurrence. Earlier in Matthew 5:40-42 we are told that “if anyone sues you and takes your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.” We are not to refuse those who borrow from us. The people of God are to be about meeting the needs of others! All different kinds of needs!

You may have had the argument in the not so distant past that “I don’t know anyone with needs.” But if you were completely honest, you would admit that this is just an excuse. Well, if there was ever a time to love your neighbor, now is that time! If you can’t find anyone to bless, love, or minister to, you just are not paying attention! We do not need to wait for people to ask, but we should offer to help in whatever form.

We do not have to wait until the idea is perfect and amazing before we will step out and give. In baseball it is a mistake to swing for the homerun every time you’re up at the plate. A few solid singles added together produce runs as well! Simple efforts can have profound effects. I want to ask each of us, “What is it going to take to get you to reach out and be a blessing to someone else?”

Each of us has different assets and talents at our disposal. God gave each of us talents to use for the good of the body of Christ. We should remember what Jesus taught about those who hide their gifts and do not use them. Read Matthew 25 for that story. We need to be about using what God has given to us in a way that people will see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven. See I Peter 2:12 . Are you thinking about ways you can use what God has given you for His glory? Do you ask God to show you people or ways that He desires to use you? Are you willing to let things get somewhat uncomfortable in order to obey and be used by God? If you need help with your taxes I would not recommend asking me. Although, you would think I would be able to at least get you started by July 15th ? However, I have people I know who could help you with your taxes! I would be able to listen and cry with you as you are challenged with raising your children. But it is on me to ask the questions to see if I can be of any help!

This current chapter in our lives has us asking many questions and hopefully turning to God for meaning and answers. I am convinced that the hardest part of seeing a way you can serve the Lord in the lives of others is just asking yourself a question! “I wonder if they could use…?” Take the small steps of being faithful and asking people questions. My prayer is that when people read the words found in Galatians 6:9-10 their thoughts will be filled with examples of solid, faithful disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ that have used the gifts God entrusted to them.

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:9-10).