Here was my question from last night…..when we see the info-mmercial about the starving kids in Africa and what we can do help in their plight…and we have a heart for them and “love” them…but we don’t act on that love…is that a sin? What would God say about us ignoring these types of situations? I ask because I would have considered myself one that loved them but felt like it wasn’t really my ministry or my “calling”, until God changed my heart a couple of years ago. Was I in sin before?? Or just being selfish in my lack of response?

That is a question from my wife referring to our talk last night at church.

If you are coming to 7Weeks then you know we are discussing how we are to serve others better.
i said there is a difference between loving others and serving them. it’s like this, i can see someone in need and feel compassion and love for them. i may even pray for them and the situation they are in, but that does not mean i will take the next step and serve them.

Love needs to move us to action!

It’s like the brother of Jesus when he writes in his letter, “Faith without works is dead.” Pretty strong! But that reveals the heart of God…our father is wanting us to not just have compassion or empathy, but to get up and do something! Let’s get to work and actually serve the people in need instead of just having feelings about it.

NOW TO ANSWER THE QUESTION:

NO, i do not think it is SIN if we do not immediately do something. i do think it is disobedience. now you may say there is no difference, but i think there is. If my kid knows without a shadow of a doubt that i have asked him to do something and he knowingly refuses to do it…that is SIN.

BUT, if my kid is not sure of something or some action, and i have not been very clear with him about the said action and he does it (or doesn’t do it) then that is not willful sin…it may still be wrong or a degree of disobedience, but i would have much more grace and mercy on him in that type of situation.

I believe this is true with God. He wants is to do certain things, but we are imperfect children who are trying our best to be like Him. And you know that sometimes we just don’t get it! I think God is merciful with us during these times, but i also believe that God is going to do everything within His power to wake us up to His will!

God has a heart for the hurting, and we MUST HAVE A HEART FOR THEM TOO!

So, may your COMPASSION for others turn into ACTION towards others!!!

peace.out.