“But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.” James 1:22; NASB

 Thanksgiving has passed which means we are officially in the Christmas Season. For some this means lights and other colorful decorations both inside and outside of the house. For some it means increased time with family, or trips to visit family, that we don’t normally get to spend time with. For children it’s the excitement of it all which culminates on Christmas Day. For some, it’s all the above. In fact, if we’re honest about it, there’s a child in most of us that still gets excited regardless of our age.

There are also those less fortunate who wish they had a family to visit, or cannot afford decorations or a tree. Some don’t have the means to give presents to their children or even have a special meal on that very special day. It is those who are less fortunate that we should make an effort to remember during this season. By remember I mean finding a charity or a helps organization that touches your heart and giving to its cause. But this year, if you haven’t already done it, consider an organization or cause that warms your heart and make a commitment to yourself to give more than just a once a year donation.

It’s easy to drop a couple of bucks into a bucket or give a little more to your church or a charity because it’s Christmas. How about finding an organization, a charity, or a church mission that excites you? One that touches your heart every time you think about the people it helps. Then, once you’ve found it, make a commitment to yourself that you are going to do something for them at least once a month for the next year. If you have the time, find out how you can contribute to the cause with personal participation. If not, pray and ask the Lord how much you should give each month.

Jesus told us that the greatest of all commandments are to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself (see Mark 12:30-31). Love is an action word. Being a “doer of the word” means demonstrating your love through your actions. The personal reward that comes from helping others is beyond description. Bless God by blessing others. Giving of ourselves to help others is part of our main purpose in this world.

Make it a point to find where and how God wants you to give. Make a personal commitment to regularly bless others with some of what God has blessed you with. It could be your physical participation by using your God given talents and abilities. It could be contributing financially, or maybe both. It also means praying for those God puts on your heart. You will be blessed for your efforts.

Have a great week and God bless.