Look Out!

A true woman say "Yes, Lord."
She makes personal sacrifices with her time and resources for Kingdom of God.

• 1 Timothy 6:17-19 "Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.  Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.

Most of us will read right past this verse.  We don't consider ourselves rich.  Rich are the Bill Gates or the Oprah Winfrey's of this world.  

The average income of the world is $7,000 a year.  Just the fact that you are reading this on your computer, means you are rich, probably in the top 70% of the world.

Our resources are to be used for the Kingdom of God.  To do good, to not just think of ourselves.  

Take inventory.  What resources do you have?  How are they being used?  Where are you laying up your treasure for the future?  Here are some ways:

Give to those in need; Run an errand for an elderly person;  When getting your groceries-ask a neighbor if you can pick them up something, too;  Volunteer at Kids Club or to listen to a student read; Clean out a drawer or cabinet, give items to those going on a mission trip;  Write a note of encouragement; Visit someone in the hospital or nursing home (call the church for a current list); Smile; say "Thank you, you are doing a great job." to a cashier; 

Do something without others knowing: Pull some weeds at the church; Shovel snow for another; Leave a gift on a front porch; give a gift card-"just because"; Pray for someone not on your list; 

There are actually lists of "Ways to Be Kind".  I don't think the issue is that we don't have any ideas or see a need, we are selfish and self-centered.  We need to look out.

The point is look outside yourself.  Use your time and money with an eternal perspective.