Let us not grow weary in well-doing

People reap what they sow (Galatians 6:7). That is not only meant to be a warning, but also as motivation and encouragement to do good, whilst it is still possible. It is therefore also an error to believe that all our positive accomplishments can be overlooked. Something for which we have sacrificed time, money, self-interest and our own egoism. God sees it (the LORD looks at that which is hidden - '' Matthew 6:4: ...thy Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly”). Our efforts towards other Christians are particularly focused on here, by the LORD. On the one hand, because our holiness (given by God) has something to do with diligence, knowledge, patience and love (2 Peter 1:3-7) and because everything that we do for our brothers and sisters in Christ, is ultimately done for Jesus (Matthew 25:40). Even a simple glass of water will not remain unrewarded when we give it to someone because he believes in Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:42). How someone receives something you kindly offer him, is not so crucial, nor whether the person also knows who is offering him the help and support. We read in Matthew 6:3 “But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth.” This means that we should not present our help in such a manner, or make it so obvious, that everyone knows about it. If God wants to honour us, then He is also able to do so without our input. How God alone sees us and our deeds is decisive and not how I see myself. Even if it turns out opposite to how we envisioned it and some people don't react the way we had hoped (due to shame, fear, bitterness) we should not allow it to discourage us. Paul wrote in Thessalonians: “But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.” (2 Thessalonians 3:13).

Some people are a bit odd and find it hard to receive anything. But, especially as Christians (if this is how we are) we need to change (allow ourselves to be changed) and rethink our attitudes. Whoever does not accept anything, how can he hope to have his prayers answered? One can however fall off a horse from both sides. There are also others who can't receive enough and abuse the kind-heartedness of Christians. There are people who pretend to be interested in God, but only want to obtain something. We are allowed to test the motivation and attitude of some people, and most definitely have the freedom to simply say “no” when something looks odd. Fundamentally, we should have open eyes and ears to the real needs of other people and our brothers and sisters in Christ. God also tests our faith and many (good) opportunities don't come again. Many guilty consciences can also be prevented by taking the time and opportunity, having the means and correct attitude and applying it correctly. But one hesitated and lacked courage to act, or did not trust oneself to simply ask whether one could help? God rewards our good deeds (also here on earth) and even prepares them beforehand. To do good is not hard when we have God's love in us and put that before anything else. Religious rituals don't replace love. Whilst it is still possible, we should have the right attitude to gather treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20).

Jörg Bauer