Faith Filled Family Magazine December 2016 | Page 35

there would be no competition
from secular organizations to
help people. When Christians
show love through charitable actions, those being helped should
see God radiating through them,
not the person giving the charity.
Showing the love of God through
actions speak louder than words.
Having the loving attitude towards others that come from
relationships with God, people
being helped will know God is
behind whatever charitable act
is being done, and will see the
people performing these actions
as disciples of God, not secular
man doing the same thing. Both
believers and non-believers can
and do show love for others,
but the love coming from God is
on a very different level of love
than secular people. The actions Christians show with God
behind them is of a shining light
breaking through darkness giving hope to those in need that
there is something more than
being poor or in need- it is hope.
Charity during the holidays is
awesome. Yet, charity at this level needs to be done through the
rest of the year. Food pantries,
kitchens, and shelters are not
open only during November and
December. There is a daily need
for people. During the holiday
when the spirit of the holidays
is present, make it a New Year’s
resolution to dedicate more time
and effort to help others in need.
Like the holidays, spend some
time in a food bank helping sort
food and putting meal bags together. Give some time at a food
kitchen serving food to the needy,
talking to them, reminding them
that people do care and show the
love of Christ through your interactions. Donate canned goods.

Get one or two things each time
you go shopping to give to your
church or a local food bank.
Adopt a family. Do something,
not nothing. Even the smallest of
gestures will make a difference
in someone’s life.
Matthew 22:36-39, ““Teacher,
which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied:
“‘Love the Lord your God with all
your heart and with all your soul
and with all your mind.’ This is

the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it:
‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
J
ohn Lysaught (http://john-lysaught.blogspot.com/) resides in El
Paso, TX with a lovely wife and
four awesome children. He enjoys studying God’s Word, reading about biblical history, and
writing for God.
All Bible verses are from the NIV.