Devotional: 2 Corinthians chapter 8:12-15: For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have. For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened; but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack, that their abundance also may supply your lack--that there may be equality. As it is written, "He who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack. To go further with this truth with one example. What about headphones which we put on to block out the outside noise? Wont we miss a cry for help or a question which is really disguised a fervent plea for assistance? So it is our actions which are indirectly proportionate to the solution. For instance, choosing less comforts mean greater ability to hear, understand, empathize and help the hurting. It isnt the pursuit of more comfort which provides this wonderful privilege to assist others in need. Unless you walk the extra mile, have gone through very similar circumstances before or at present you cannot minister wholly as someone who has. So the point is . do not pursuit a shield or barrier like those mentioned above to ease your own conscience. Likely, it is GOD talking to you with a request for your involvement which ironically brings the comfort and peace of being in HIS will. We are made whole and comforted surely through selfless service, are we not? Amen and amen.[u][i][b]Indirectly Proportionate[/b][/i][/u]The view of things surroundingfail to move this soul with envy.All now pales compared with Glory and HIS face.Yet remaining are those dutieswhich require ones whole intentso no tangible of comfort is erased.Although driven, yet I pausebecause these steps of mine have erred.Possessions then between me stand and Calvary!Yes, those things which ease the painfuland subdue such lack as wellhave restrained my heart from recognizing need.So these knees drop to the groundwhilst each obstacle is spurnedby casting off the goal to own another thing.For I recall the purposed Twelvewere not to gain but give themselvesand in so doing, to those hurting, comfort bring! As HIS servant in your service,WVW Jasnoch 12/29/07
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