Giving to Others

1 John 3:16 makes it pretty clear. Jesus laid down his life for us, and we ought to do the same for others. Sharing our “worldly goods” (1 John 3:17) with those in need is proof that we are on the side of God’s truth and not just faking our faith (1 John 3:19). But how much? When? With whom? I read one commentary on this passage that said we ought to “give till it hurts.” I think John knows how this kind of thinking can pitch us down a path of “debilitating self-criticism” (1 John 3:21, The Message). 1 John wants his congregation to live in freedom and love, not in guilt and self-criticism. 1 John reminds them that God (not us!) is a God of unlimited resources. He boasts, “Whatever we ask we receive from [God]” (1 John 3:22). Giving that flows from my own resources tends to treat others as projects and problems, while giving that flows God’s generosity reflects Jesus’ love for people. 

If you missed yesterday’s message you can listen to it here or watch the entire worship service on our YouTube channel.

Yours for Christ, 

Pastor Steve

steve@clpc.org

Practice What?

Love is supposed to define us as children of God, yet there are times when loving ourselves and others can be difficult. When we stumble, wrestle with old habits, or feel disappointed by others, we can wonder if Jesus really makes a difference. However, 1 John 3:1-7 reminds us that we are a work in progress. The writer assures us that we are God’s children now, and that more is to come. "What we will become has not yet been revealed," as it says in 1 John 3:2. Years ago, I heard someone put it this way: "God loves me just as I am but too much to leave me that way.” 

No matter the trials you face today, remember that God's love doesn’t depend on having it all together. It's grounded in the simple truth that you are a child of God.

If you missed yesterday’s message you can listen to it here or watch the entire worship service on our YouTube channel.

Yours for Christ, 

Pastor Steve

steve@clpc.org