Thursday, March 19, 2020

Why do we rejoice in the Lord always?

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” - Philippians 4:4-5

Because the Lord is near, we can rejoice and treat others with gentleness. He is near because he lives in us through his Spirit. He is near because his coming is at hand. He is near because when we gather with other believers, serve others who are in need, or share the Gospel with friends and people of other cultures, he has promised to be with us.

There is nothing more infectious than a joyous and kind person. Because Jesus lives in us, works through us, and is coming for us, we can be both joyful and tender!

Love for Enemies

Matthew 5:43-48

 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor  and hate your enemy.’    But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,    that you may be children  of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.    If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?  Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 

And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?   Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Giving to the Needy

Matthew 6:1
Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.  If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

Matthew 23:5
“Everything they do is done for people to see:  They make their phylacteries  wide and the tassels on their garments  long;

Matthew 6:4

“Everything they do is done for people to see:  They make their phylacteries  wide and the tassels on their garments  long;

Romans 12:8
if it is to encourage, then give encouragement;  if it is giving, then give generously;  if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

[Message No: 7600]

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