Hebrews 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
These past few weeks I was hit with the power of these four little words, “How can I help?” My wife and I had visited one of our grandkids school’s Open House. One main element in the classroom was a chart of ‘Helpers of the Day.’ It was such an honor to help the class with a special project or part of the daily routine. Our grandkids were so empowered, so encouraged, and so honored to help. I have also been in my wife’s kindergarten class (she is a teacher) and seen how kids love to help, from clean up, to helping a fellow class member, to being ‘Helper of the Day.’ Kids enjoy knowing they are helpful…and so do each of us! That desire and ability to be helpful is within us all.
All through life, those who ask, ‘How can I help?’ seem to be greatly blessed and are well remembered. Over these past few weeks, I have presided over a number of memorial services. In these times of remembering those who have passed on, it’s not so much the great accomplishments or personal accolades people share about. What people share is how helpful that person was to them. It is encouraging when people ask, “How can I help?” This question and the actions that follow bring connection, support, aid, assistance, and a sense that we are not alone. Asking, “How can I help?” is a relief and many hands make light work. God encourages us to help.
Galatians 6:2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Philippians 2:4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Proverbs 3:27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,when it is in your power to do it.
Proverbs 11:25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,and one who waters will himself be watered.
1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
Too much our world is pushing us to get rather than give and be helpful. We have been persuaded to feel entitled and have been pulled into a victim mentality where we can expect and even demand to be helped. Yes, at times we need help, but even in our need we can be helpful. Who could you go to today and ask, “How can I help?” Why not give it a try. It may have a wonderful effect on both you and the one you help.
A great place to learn how to be a better helper is at church. If you do not already have a church you attend, we would like to invite you to view or visit Neighborhood Church. We are a fun, welcoming church that loves God and seeks to live life His way. Each Sunday we study the Bible and have a great time together. We would love for you to join us. Our website has all the information you need for times and locations of all our gatherings. You can also find us online at neighborhoodchurch.com. As well, if you would like to view any of our past worship gatherings or videos, visit our YouTube channel, or just search Neighborhood Church Cypress or Neighborhood Church Los Alamitos on their YouTube site.
Seeking to ask, ‘How can I help?’ along with you,
Messages From Mike 
