I am a firm believer that helping others makes us feel better about ourselves. I also believe that when we apply certain principles to our service to others, we can grow spiritually. too. For instance, when we do something in private, when nobody else knows, it then becomes a matter between us, the person we help, and God. Jesus taught that this was the right way to do it (Matthew 6:3). It keeps our motives pure, and we get to personally see God working through us. Our deed then turns into a faith builder for us. Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan gives us some more thoughts on this. Just as the Samaritan redefined who our neighbors are, I believe that it is a good thing when we step out of our comfort zone and help someone who is not in our normal social circle.

Sometimes we need to heed Jesus’ lesson and show mercy where it is least expected (Luke 10:37). I also believe that the parable shows us the blessings of sacrificing when we help others. It is a good thing when we can help out with just a drink or a small amount of food, but don’t you feel better when you dig deeper, sacrifice a little more, and step out in faith when you help others? Isn’t that what Jesus meant when He said, “…to give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap” (Luke 6:38). Paul wrote that giving “out of their poverty” helped the churches of Macedonia grow in their faith and grow in grace (2 Corinthians 8:1-5).

I am not trying to downplay any act of kindness we may bestow on others; I just believe there are times when we can use our service as a way to build a stronger faith within us. – Donnie Carnathan, West Erwin church of Christ, Tyler, TX