Withhold not good

Proverbs 3:27

Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.

Today, we have a simple injunction that the Lord has led us to. Let us lay our eyes on this profound command. It is a mixture of simplicity and profundity. For we cannot mistake the meaning and implication of this verse, nor can we escape its necessity. And yet, it is so profound, that it may rightfully govern our whole lives. For think with me just for a moment! What can you do for others? What is in the power of your hand? Many things! You have resources beyond your needs. You have goods that surpass what is necessary to your health and well-being. And you have seen others in need, and have, at times, passed them by. This we all have done. But to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. It is sin to withhold from others the good that is in our power to give.

Who can we bless today? Who can share in the goods that God has lavished on us? Has He given us His eternal and secure salvation? Others must hear this great message, for how shall they hear without a preacher? They must hear! It is in the power of thine hand! Do you have physical health and strength? How can you help others, rather than waste away the vitality that God has given you? How can we share our pecuniary blessings, our love, our care, our concern, our food and drink, or the truth that we hold dearly in our hands. Don’t withhold it! Find someone this day that is in need of it, and give it! By God’s help, may we not withhold good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of our hands to do it.

“Father, we ask for your help, because we know that this is against our nature. We want to keep everything for ourselves, sharing nothing, giving nothing, and blessing no one. But our dear Savior Himself came not be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many! Instill this mind in us, which was also in Christ Jesus. Help us to give to all that we can, and cease from withholding the abundant spiritual and physical blessings that you have unreservedly showered upon us. Will you help us and guide us in this today? We thank you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”