A New Year

Let Us Do Good

Written by Dr. Bill Bagents

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:9-10).

“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4).

I love to be set up for success. All my life I have been blessed by people who wanted the best for me, expected the best of me, and tried to help me do right. God continues to treat me far better than I deserve. Recent examples include:

• Being invited to speak for series and being assigned some wonderful topics • Being introduced by kind people who leave out the negatives and express optimism about the lesson that will be presented • Being invited to offer help during some crises and being thanked in advanced for the effort that will be made • Being asked to recommend some excellent people for new opportunities that seem tailor-made for their talents.

It’s a joy to be set up for success, but it’s also a joy to set others up to succeed. It’s one of the happiest applications of Galatians 6:9-10. We don’t get too tired to say a good word about the good work being done by others to the glory of God. When we summon the energy to do that, God will give us even more of His strength. We don’t get too tired to help those who are doing good work to the glory of God. Even if we can’t do much, every effort helps. Every effort counts. God never fails to notice.

We delight in equipping others (Ephesians 4:11-16). We delight in encouraging all things good. We don’t care who generates the idea or who first brings it to our attention. If it’s good, right, biblical, and encouraging, then we’re for it. We don’t care who is chosen to lead the effort. If that leader is one of God’s people, we’re onboard, happy, and willing to follow.

We delight in planting happy seed. “Have you thought about asking ___ to help. He has really impressed me.” “Maybe ____ could help us. She always has the best attitude.” We welcome fresh, solid ideas for advancing the kingdom. We love to see brethren grow, adding to their talents and their influence. We love the spirit of Philippians 2:3-4, because we know it is the very spirit of Christ (John 13:34-35).

What a joy to help set others up for success. What a joy to lead a conspiracy of encouragement in all things good. Such wise and active humility will be blessed by God.