Are you following the example set by the good Samaritan?
Last week we looked at the first necessity for following the example of the good Samaritan. Each of us need to open our Spiritual Eyes as we enter into this world and take note of the needs of those around us. Perceiving the need is only the first step of course; we then need to do something about what we see. We read this inspired question in 1 John 3:17 "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother (his fellow man) have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?" The understood answer of course is that the love of God does not dwell in him. What are we to do and how are we to do it? It is much easier for us to see the physical needs of someone and we should do everything we can to meet these needs, but what about their spiritual needs? Often by meeting a person's physical needs we will meet their spiritual needs as well. More often than not though people will seem to have everything going for them, but deep down inside their hearts are hurting. The second necessity for following the example of the good Samaritan is Spiritual Equipment, which is the Word of God, a Walk with God (a personal relationship), and Whole-hearted Surrender. Without these three things we will not be able to effectively minister to the needs of others.
I would like to cover the first sub-point here and address the other two next week. The worth of the counsel and comfort we give rises and falls upon its foundation in the Word of God. In verses 7-11 of chapter 19 the Psalmist wrote, "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward." Our duty is to share the truths of Scripture with others and as they embrace and obey them they will be set free ("And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32). As good intentioned as they may be, the philosophies of men are not able to lift mankind out of the horrible pit and the miry clay of this world and set them upon solid ground. The Psalmist writes in another passage, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy Word." Only the Word of God has the power to cleanse the sin and soothe the hurt of one's heart.
How has the Lord worked in your heart this week? I'd love to have you leave me a comment or write me an email and share what the Lord has been teaching you!
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