Wednesday, August 7th, 2019

As the nation debates what to do in the face of senseless evil as a result of the tragic shootings this past weekend, it is easy to sit back and believe we accomplish something good by only supporting one political plan or another. But God did not place us here in order for us to only post on social media and vote once a year. We are called to actively love, support, and do good to others. Proverbs tells us, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” Upon first read, this verse can seem like it is saying we should do good for people who deserve it, or “to whom it is due.” But what does it mean to be owed good deeds, and how do we know to whom they are due? Jesus, as usual, set the example. Not one of us sinners deserved forgiveness and love from Jesus, but yet, he gave himself for each of us. Thus, if we apply that standard to the Proverbs verse, it becomes clear to whom good deeds are due: everyone. The world works best when no one withholds good deeds from anyone because they believe them to be undeserving. Today, give freely to those who need it without regard for if they deserve it.

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” – Proverbs 3:27 NIV