Know It Live It

Recently I was reminded that the basis of good living is to know it, live it and teach others to do the same.

Reflecting on any progress I’ve made in life, I’ve noticed these have tended to take place when I’m in the company of others who mean to progress.  As they live it and do it, so it motivates me to live it and do it likewise.

So it’s heartbreaking to come across individuals with so much potential who are stymied because they remain isolated and alienated from a community of progress that inspires thoughtful, heartfelt action. I wholeheartedly agree that each individual must take responsibility for his or her own growth and development.  Yet there is also the pattern that Jesus shows and the apostles would also model.  That of having an interdependent community who learnt from each other as they carried out their duties.

It’s such a pity if the church experience is just a talk shop without actions to show for it and testimonies of what’s been done to share with others to encourage them in their walk. We can do so much especially if we see it happening among the community of progress.  Examples of sharing the love of Jesus with a colleague at work.  Overcoming a challenging week financially and remaining faithful in tough times. Caring for someone in an old people’s home.  Going on a prison visit and developing relationships that allow those who leave to be re-established in a supportive community.

These things and more can be happening on a regular basis that gives proof of the love of God in action. As we do them it can help others to pick up and learn that the life of devotion goes way beyond attending meetings, singing songs, listening to someone talk before tea, coffees, biscuits and a bakewell tart.

Moving forwards, after a month of studying and reflecting on the book of Proverbs, I’m all the more eager to live the wise life in the light of the fear of the Lord.  I’m desirous to live that life and share it with others learning from them and sharing stories to be of support to others so that it helps us to be about God’s business and all the more eagerly as His return comes.

It’s not enough to just have heard.  It’s not enough to have initial good feelings about it. It is about getting on with it, taking other people with you and growing in knowing the grace of God by doing something as well as reading it and reflecting on it.

They know because of how we live. I hope they will know from what they see in my life.

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden