You Called Me Brother

Suppose someone has enough to live and sees a brother or sister in need, but he does not help.  Then God's love is not living in that person.  (1 John 3:17).

The needy look to their right, then look to their left and believe there is no one concerned about them.  God says that we should uphold the cause of the oppressed and give food to the hungry.  Jesus taught that life is more than food and clothes.  He said, "Do not set your hearts on these things, for the Father knows what you need and not to worry about it".  Rather seek His Kingdom and these things will be given to you.  Sell what you don't need and give to the poor.  For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.

Make every effort to live in peace with all men; not considering anyone beneath you.  You may ask, "What does the Lord require of me?"  God's word says you're to do three things:

Seek justice, love mercy, and walk humble with your God.  (Micah 6:8)

Seeking justice is that in our society, we strive to put no one below what are considered equal; treating everyone the same and lifting up the poor and oppressed.  Therefore, showing a heart that loves mercy, you walk humble with your God.

Keep on loving each other as brothers, and entertain strangers for some have entertained angels without knowing it.  Keep yourselves free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, because God has said,

"Never will I leave you;

Never will I forsake you."

Therefore, through Jesus offer a sacrifice of praise continually, and confess His great name.  And do not forget to do well and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

Tolstoy, the great Russian writer, was walking down the street and approached a beggar.  He wanted to give the beggar some money, but his pockets were empty.  He turned to the man and said, "I'm sorry brother, but I have nothing to give," the beggar brightened and replied, "you have given me more than I ask for:

"You have called me brother".

Natalie Grant   Psalm 143   Isaiah 40   Luke 12, 13   Hebrews 12, 13   Max Lucado

Leo Tolstoy