Devotions from James Smith book, Embracing the Love of God

God provides us with an example of how to care for one another. Our motive for caring comes from the care God has shown us. “God cares for our spiritual life, God cares for the health of our soul, and God provides for our physical needs. God is available, God listens, and God never abandons us. This is how we are to care for one another.” We are called to be His hands and feet and mouth as He brings people into our lives. We are vessels that carry a great treasure within us and it is His power that heals and blesses others.

It is so important to listen to others and when we listen without judgment it is a wonderful gift we give to one another.  Have you ever noticed how your soul is set free when you know you’ve been heard?
And when we receive encouraging words it breathes life into us and energizes us.  Max Lacado wrote, “Plant a word of love heart-deep in a person’s life. Nurture it with a smile and a prayer, and watch what happens.” What usually happens is that the person is enabled to walk away refreshed and full of energy. Sometimes we can make a difference just by writing a letter of encouragement, or speaking into their life. Maybe our random act of kindness seems small but each thing we do for another has great significance.  “When we care for others, our capacity to care is increased.”   We benefit as well.