FBCD_FaithEssentials_June_FlipBook

Faith Essentials

Step outside of your box , which may require overcoming fear. The Good Samaritan certainly did. How could he be sure this crime was not staged? What if the victim was actually part of a band of robbers— with the rest of the gang lurking in the shadows, waiting to take advantage of the first person to stop. I’m not suggesting you make unwise or irresponsible decisions and put your life at risk. Stopping for strangers could lead to disaster. However, if you follow the lead of the Holy Spirit, He will guide and protect in such situations. Certainly, many other less daring needs and opportunities exist. For example, are there positions or projects where you could plug in? Could you volunteer at an area food mission or homeless shelter? Would you consider going on a short term mission trip? Have you shared the plan of salvation with someone and led them to faith in Jesus Christ? These suggestions may create a sense of fear in you, but they shouldn’t. The Bible says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7, KJV). “Perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). Don’t be afraid to move beyond the comfortable. Consider the possibility that God has a wonderful blessing in store if only you’ll conquer your fears, branch away from the well-worn paths, and venture into uncharted territory. Stepping outside of your box often means putting aside your prejudices as well. Since Jews often referred to Samaritans as “half- breeds” and “dogs,” this lawyer must surely have been taken aback by the fact that this man was the only one among the three to stop and offer assistance. Mahatma Gandhi wrote in his autobiography that during his student days he read the Gospels and seriously considered converting to Christianity. He believed the teachings of Jesus could provide the solution to the caste system that divided the people of India.

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