Today I offer a prayer of encouragement to care for others as God desires. This topic has come up in my recent conversations, so it is on my heart at the moment.
Father God, our Magnificent and Generous Lord, You are far beyond compare. Father, as You make us stronger, You task us with bearing the failings of the weak, not reveling in our personal blessings. May we learn to fulfill our our neighbor’s needs and seek their good, building them up, rather than seeking our own good. You have blessed us so greatly, so as we abide in You may we bless others in return as their needs are made known to us, and not close our hearts to them as the world may. May we never grow weary of doing good for others, for we will receive treasure in heaven if we endure. May we do good for everyone at every opportunity, especially for our brothers and sisters in Christ. May we remember those who are often overlooked, such as widows, orphans, and the financially burdened, sharing with them as the Spirit leads, and keeping our hearts pure from worldly condescension. When we see these people in need, and share what we have, those sacrifices are good and pleasing to You, and our faith is supported by our works. Thank you for the reminder that the good works we perform for those in need are good works that we are also doing for You and Your glory, just as Jesus taught us. To You be all honor, praise and glory, forever and ever, amen.
[Inspired by Rm 15:1-2, 1 Cor 10:24, Php 2:4, 1 Jn 3:17, Gal 6:9-10, Jas 1:27, He 13:16, Jas 2:14-17, Mt 25:40]
~ Conqueror in Training