"In this world, where e'er we roam, ancient words will guide us home. Ancient words, ever true, changing me and changing you; we have come with open hearts. Oh, let the ancient words impart!"
These lyrics from the song, "Ancient Words," remind us that wherever we are, we can find where our home is, with God, through His Word: the Holy Bible. "Your word, Oh Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens." (Psalm 119:89, NIV) "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8, NIV) You can always rely on His Word to lead and guide you back to Him. His Word is His love letter to His children. Dive into it!
The main verses Maxwell has for today are Deuteronomy 15:7-8: "If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs." (NIV)
Maxwell notes three characteristics of great leaders: they serve others, solve problems, and save causes that matter. Leaders need to be generous and help those less fortunate than they. That may or may not take the form of money. As a leader, you can offer your gift. Lead others. Don't hold your gift to yourself. God gave it to you for a reason: to give to others.
Help others. This can take several forms, such as service, counseling, or even simply listening. Never underestimate the impact that can be made by something you may find to be really easy or simple. It could make a great difference for someone else.
The reflection question this evening asks: "How can you err on the side of generosity?" What do you have to give others that can help them and lead them to Christ? We have already established that you can offer your leadership. You can also serve others. Servant leadership can have a huge impact. You may offer others advice. Listen when a friend is going through a difficult situation. It may be that you need to pray to God with them and ask Him to lead him or her. Whatever the case may be, use your gift to help others. Be generous. Christ gave His life for you. We can never even begin to come close to paying that back. But you can, "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God," and, "not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--His good, pleasing, and perfect will." (Romans 12:1-2, NIV) Furthermore, we must, "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." (Ephesians 5:1-2, NIV)
God bless you!
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