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Making God Proud

“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”¹

The other day I was visiting a friend who is struggling with some serious health issues. She was feeling discouraged and when I told her to reach out to me anytime of day or night if she needed anything, she said she felt bad asking for help. I reminded her that she was like family to us, I hugged her as she cried, and I told her we were always here to support her.

I decided to get her some groceries and flowers in hopes to brighten her day. My three children had been with me this entire time but had been playing quietly in the living room as my friend and I spoke. When we got in the car to leave, my 6-year-old son said, “Mom, I am proud of you.” I was honestly speechless as it was the sweetest thing coming from a 6-year-old, and honestly, I wasn’t sure what I had done to cause him to say that. Once I gathered my thoughts, I replied, “That is really sweet, bud, but why are you proud of me?” He said, “You let Mary (name changed for privacy) know that she was not alone. You told her we were here for her. I know that made her happy.”

Tears flooded my eyes as I realized something… When we put our faith into action, not only do we bless a specific person, but we are also modeling what faith looks like to those around us, especially our children. I hadn’t thought much about what I was doing, but I was being watched, not only by my son, but by God. I thought, “If my son is proud of me, I know my Heavenly Father is as well.” And that is my goal… to honor God in all that I do. Not looking for recognition or praise, but to bring others closer to Jesus.

 

Suggested prayer: Dear God, my desire is to make you proud with my words and actions. Help me love and serve others, not for personal gain, but because of all you have given me and done in my life. I want to serve you faithfully with a thankful heart. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. James 2:14-17.

 

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.