9 Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Tina Bogg

I love the encouragement from this verse that trying to do daily life well, through faith in Christ, is an investment that will reap a harvest for God.

Initially as I read this passage, I was thinking about all the mundane, everyday activities I do. For me that’s the continuous cycle of shopping, cooking, cleaning, laundry, school pickup, extracurricular activities and the everyday emotional battles of parenting. “Well-doing” – or “doing good” in the NIV (which seems a bit clearer) – in my own situation includes being intentional in providing healthy meals for the family, keeping a cleanish house and getting the kids to help, encouraging the kids to learn and try different skills and focus on effort rather than achievements.

As I reflected more, however, I realised the most tiring part is actually trying to do these things with a Christ-like attitude: with patience and kindness, without grumbling, and keeping the big picture of God’s priorities in mind. This often includes the effort of many little acts of love: slowing down to listen to my daughter or read her a book instead of hurrying about finishing up the washing; or taking the time to message a friend and cook extra for someone who’s having a rough week; or taking a deep breath after being asked the same thing for the fifth time in one minute and answering without snapping; or apologising after snapping. Doing good, out of faith in Christ, takes energy and time.

As I read this passage, I resonate with feeling weary, but am encouraged to not give up, trusting that the good fruit will come later and it’s not all for nothing,

Your life situation might be very different to mine. What are the good things you are busy with? Paul includes a special note to do good to our brothers and sisters in Christ. With that in mind, who can you bless today with a message, a prayer, a meal or a helping hand? Let’s pray that God will continue to give us strength, energy, time, patience and perseverance to do good wherever He has placed us.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tina is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.