Share the Good News - April / May 2003

The Word of God...

“. . . is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12, ESV). This verse has brought me both joy and pain in recent weeks, as God continues His work in my heart through His Word.

This week the pastors of my church taught from Romans 13, a passage that cut me to the quick: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:9-10). God used these words to pierce the thoughts and intentions of my heart, and I was convicted of how often I have failed God in this command.

As is often the case, the message of the Bible stands in complete opposition to the message of the world. As an American I am taught to “stand up for my rights,” while the Bible tells me to put others’ “rights” before my own. I need to learn to love my neighbors by subordinating my rights to the needs of those around me. I confess that this often seems impossible to me—and it is impossible in my own strength. But God has provided a solution—“Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires” (Romans 13:14). Only by “putting on” Jesus Christ each day is it possible to love my neighbor as God has commanded.

Interestingly, this Christ-like love might be the best evangelistic tool of all. Will you commit with me to take time this week to tangibly demonstrate this command to our neighbor? Let’s love this generation into the Kingdom of God!

Geoffrey L. Dennis
Vice President, Creative and Ministry Resources

Free Book Offer!

April 1 through June 9, 2003, order six or more packs of Mother’s Day tracts and receive a free copy of Good News for Moms. Order six or more packs of Father’s Day tracts and receive a free copy of Good News for Dads. These pocket-sized gift books feature over 150 pages of encouraging Scripture passages and inspiring quotes designed to celebrate the God-given role of parenthood. Your free book will be automatically included in your qualifying order at no extra cost to you. Order soon to receive your free gift in time for Mom or Dad’s special day.

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