LIVING FOR OTHERS

William Booth, the Founder of the Salvation Army, had a deep love for the Lord and the poor of London. In fact, the Army was founded in the slums of London in a nation that was not very kind to the poor. In fact, Booth was actually arrested for practicing charity among the poor.

During that era the needs of the poor were great, and times were difficult for all. As a result, his work grew rapidly. He was told that there was a similar need in America and decided to send some “volunteers” from his Army to America to begin their work here.

On one occasion the American Salvation Army was having a convention. Although he could not attend he was asked to send a message to the ones in attendance. He cabled one word only: “Others!”

There is a great danger when we do not think of “Others!” Paul warned about it when he wrote, “Don’t be selfish: don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.”

It is almost impossible to imagine the impact that we Christians could have on the world if we took Paul’s words to heart. Imagine with me, if you can, how different the world would be if we accepted the problems of others as though they were ours.

Prayer:  Help me, Father, to accept my responsibility to be moved with compassion and act with charity to meet the needs of others who need hope and help. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Don’t be selfish: don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Philippians 2:3