But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all
earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace
also. I say this is not a command but to prove by the earnestness of others
that your love also is genuine. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ, that though he was rich yet for your sake he became poor, so that
you by his poverty might become rich.
2 Corinthians 8: 7-9 (ESV)

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Do you ever ask yourself, how well do I treat other people? If someone asked a coworker of yours this question about you, what do you think they would say? Would they use words like kind-hearted, nice, and gracious? Would they say you were understanding or a bit judgemental? Would they say they feel valued by you? 

As Christ followers, we are called to wrap our words in love so that those we’re speaking to will receive the grace of God. I know it’s easy to get wrapped up in the business of life, but lately, God has been challenging me to slow down and notice the people around me. So, I’ll ask you the same questions that I’ve asked myself as of late. When was the last time you noticed someone in need of help and actually stopped to help them? How often do you go out of your way to help others? 

We are called to pursue justice, correct the oppressor, defend the rights of the fatherless, and plead the widow’s cause (Isaiah 1:17). We are to help those who can’t help themselves. After all, that is what our heavenly Father did for us. When we were sinners and could do nothing for God, God in Christ became sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in him (2 Cor 5:21). 

That’s the goal, to become more like Christ, to become more like our Father.

Next Steps 

Consider volunteering with Willow’s Compassion and Justice ministry. Take a look here to see all the opportunities that are available.