Proverbs Ch3 verses 27-28 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbour, “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you” when you already have it with you.
Twice the words ‘do not’ are used in these two verses. These words are clear in their intention, they are to prevent the reader from being under any illusion about how we should respond to those to whom good is due. We are to give it to them immediately or as soon as possible. We are not to withhold it or put it off when it is within our ability to give it there and then.
Doing good should be one of those things that each of us as Christians finds is a natural response to God’s transforming power being at work in us. I am reminded of the phrase which says that ‘by their fruits you shall know them’.
One of those fruits by which we are known as followers of Jesus is that we are doers of good, not just talkers of doing good, or those who encourage others to do good. No, but we are known by the fact that we do good to men and women of all faiths and none, to whom that good is due.
Dear Lord Jesus, as your Church here in Wath may we be known, both collectively and individually, as those who can be called upon and relied upon to do good in your name.
Amen
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