We Are To Do Good To Our Neighbors

[Thompson, Darryl]

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Ellen G. White Estate, Devotional for January 26
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We Are To Do Good To Our Neighbors

Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power
of thine hand to do it Prov. 3:27.

So ready, so eager is the Saviour's heart to welcome us as members of
the family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in
approaching God, He places the assurance of our divine
relationship,-"Our Father." . . . In calling God our Father, we
recognize all His children as our brethren. We are all a part of the
great web of humanity, all members of one family. In our petitions we
are to include our neighbors as well as ourselves. No one prays aright
who seeks a blessing for himself alone.

We are bound to the Lord by the strongest ties, and the manifestation of
our Father's love should call forth the most filial affection and the
most ardent gratitude. The laws of God have their foundation in the most
immutable rectitude, and are so framed that they will promote the
happiness of those who keep them. 

In the lesson of faith that Christ taught on the mount, are revealed the
principles of true religion. Religion brings man into personal relation
with God, but not exclusively; for the principles of heaven are to be
lived out, that they may help and bless humanity. A true child of God
will love Him with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. He will
have an interest for his fellow-men. True religion is the work of grace
upon the heart, that causes the life to flow out in good works, like a
fountain fed from living streams. Religion does not consist merely in
meditation and prayer. The Christian's light is displayed in good works,
and is thus recognized by others. Religion is not to be divorced from
the business life. It is to pervade and sanctify its engagements and
enterprises. If a man is truly connected with God and heaven, the spirit
that dwells in heaven will influence all his words and actions. He will
glorify God in his works, and will lead others to honor Him.

>From Devotional: Our Father Cares, p. 35.