Just Doing It

I recieve a weekly email devotional from the American Bible Society. The devotional is based on quotes from Detrich Bonhoeffer's books. Dietrich was an early 20th century theologian, pastor and leader in the Confessing Church Mvement in Nazi Germany. He was executed by the Thrid Reich in the final days of World War II. He is considered by many to be a twentieth century martyr. To read more about him go to the Wikipedia article on Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

To learn more about The American Bible Society or sign up for one of their devotionals or other resources go to http://www.bibles.com/

January 30, 2008
From American Bible Society
Seize the Day with Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Just Doing It
"We are again asking about good works instead of doing this work ourselves in such a way that the left hand does not know what the right hand is doing." - THE WAY TO FREEDOM

Putting God's Principles into action
We can speculate about how we can act meaningfully and purposefully in our world. But finally we need to do what lies right at hand. If we are open to grasp the opportunities that come our way, we will have ample things to do. This does not mean we should act haphazardly. There may be things that we need to say "No" to, but we cannot fail to do what clearly must be done.

What the Bible is saying
When you do good deeds, don't try to show off. If you do, you won't get a reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to the poor, don't blow a loud horn. That's what show-offs do in the meeting places and on the street corners, because they are always looking for praise. I can assure you that they already have their reward. When you give to the poor, don't let anyone know about it. Then your gift will be given in secret. Your Father knows what is done in secret, and he will reward you. - Matthew 6:1-4 (CEV)

Thoughts
Giving, expecting nothing in return, is a state of being that can only be graced by God's Spirit.