Just Around the Corner

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.  By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”  (John 13:34-35, NASB95)

Out of our time with God pours ministry.   It is a fruit of being with Him and in His word.  We begin to see love pour out of our hearts to Him and to others.  We just have to give it away.  True communion, fellowship with God and with others, is a natural overflow.  We cannot contain the love He puts in us.  It is like singing a tune you can't get off your mind.

I tend to isolate or to hold onto others too tightly.  But when I have my needs met in my relationship with God, I am able to move out and enjoy others in the dance.  Not needing them or pushing them away, but enjoying them.  Seeing them delight in God and Him in them.  And having relationship with them.  Enjoying them and God in them. 

Know that your ministry God has given you is just around the corner.  It is letting the love of Christ flow through you.  It can be a smile to the check-out clerk.  A word of encouragement at just the right time.  A prayer for someone the Lord lays on your heart.  Letting the other fellow turn in front of you.   Passing on God’s goodness and His faithfulness in your life, even when it is such a mess. At that very point you are fellowshipping with God and others.   He uses it all.

When we do these kinds of things to gain favor with God or to try to be a good person, it becomes an effort.  But when we have been in personal relationship with God, ministry cannot be contained.  You'll notice the hum in your lips, the skip in your step and the smile on your face.

Ask the Spirit to bring someone into your life today.  Be sensitive to His nudging and leading.  You'll be surprised how blessed you are through that also.  It is contagious.  Joy spreads joy, love spreads love, blessing, blesses.  One of the most precious gifts God has given to us is life, today.  Let’s not let it pass us by.

Spend time alone with God.  It might be while watching a sunrise.  Taking a quiet walk with Him.  Receiving His extravagant love for you in whatever you enjoy.  Accepting who you are to Him and letting that soak into your bones.  He will put on flesh and breathe life into you.  There’s no magic formula.  He’s your best friend.  You are His delight.

Father draw us to your side.  Quiet our hearts before you.  Let us see how rivers of living water flow from you.  May we offer others a drink.