A Good Addiction to Have

Have you ever noticed the immediate bond you feel with a believer who is a servant? Someone who is looking out for the good of another believer? Someone who wants to help you and build you up in the faith?

This week, my daughter Rebekah reported home about the wonderful care that she was given in several homes in France and Germany. She was “blessed” verbally by a Pastor who is headed to Paris and cared for by a dear family, the Coles. When I asked her if she was well, she said “Yes, this place feels like home. I don’t want to leave.” Do you have any idea what that kind of ministry to my little girl means to me? And what about to God? You can read her account here.

In my Bible reading this week, I came across this verse in 1 Cor. 16:15-19 where Paul tells us that those who serve others, those who help others, working for the benefit of the believers, supplying what lacks, those who refresh the spirits of others (16:18) literally “those who have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints” are to be praised, acknowledged and submitted to. Literally, you need to emulate them. Follow their example. Esteem those who offer support, aid and refreshment to the saints.

Peter and I love to meet active Christian families, especially those who will go out of their way for other believers. We count it a joy to get to know believers from all over!

If you have to be addicted to something, wouldn’t it be great to have said of you that you were addicted or devoted to ministering to the needs of others?

I have a great example of this. My parents are known for having supplied for the needs of the saints. I can’t tell you how many times people have told me of what my parents have done behind the scenes. Things I never knew as a child. They are known in the community as “good people.” They are known by other believers as a safe place for hurting hearts. And this is a good thing.

Perhaps you have an example of this in your life as well? Taking in hurting Christians, counseling, feeding, offering fellowship, giving, refreshing…all for the sake of the gospel.

I don’t know about you, but this is a lifestyle that I want as well. It is not a church program. It is not only to your church family. And many times it requires extra work. People are not going to find you. You open your eyes of kindness seek out those who have needs.

What do you need? A heart that is concerned for the well being of others, one that wants to bless, give and help. Isn’t this a much needed ministry in our day and age? And it is one that commands respect and that Paul says that it is worthy of acknowledgement, admiring and submission (follow their example).

What can you do today to encourage a fellow believer? What ways have you found to be the hands and feet of Christ to someone else?