AUGUST 22, 2014
Live
In Love
Read: Psalm
112
Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; he is gracious,
and full of compassion. —Psalm
112:4
In the African country
where my friend Roxanne lives, water is a precious commodity. People often have
to travel long distances to collect water from small, contaminated
creeks—leading to sickness and death. It’s difficult for organizations like
orphanages and churches to serve the people because of a lack of water. But
that’s beginning to change.
Through Roxanne’s
leadership and the unselfish gifts of some loving people in established
churches, clean water wells are being dug. At least six new wells are now
operational, allowing churches to be centers of hope and encouragement. A
health center and a home for 700 orphans will also be able to be opened because
of access to water.
That’s the kind of
love that can flow from believers in Christ when we have experienced the love
and generosity of God. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13 that if we don’t have
love, our voices clang on people’s ears and our faith means nothing. And the
apostle John says that if we have material possessions and see others in need
and take action, that’s evidence that God’s love is abiding in us (1 John
3:16).
God desires that we
deal “graciously” (Ps. 112:5) with those in need, for His heart is gracious
toward us.
Be not weary in your
serving;
Do your best for those
in need;
Kindnesses will be
rewarded
By the Lord who
prompts the deed. —Anon.
Kindness is
Christianity with its working clothes on.
Insight
While there is no
designation of the author of Psalm 112, the common speculation is for Davidic
authorship. It may well have been written as a companion to Psalm 111. In both
songs, the verses are written in alphabetical order, and both share the theme
of the characteristics and life of the person blessed by God. Psalm 111 focuses
on the God who blesses, while Psalm 112 focuses on the person who is blessed.
Source:
Our Daily Bread 2012
