So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.
— GALATIANS 6:10 —
Sean Ransom: The Expositor’s Academy | Philippines
Throughout our lives, God graciously gives us opportunities to help people spiritually and physically. Mature followers of Christ recognize these times and seek to do good to those in need, especially to believers. Paul wrote, “Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:4). The gospel should compel followers of Jesus to “do good to all people” by living for God instead of self. To do this, God has made us stewards of spiritual gifts and material resources so that we can edify and help others. Opportunities to “do good” in the spiritual lives of God’s people in the Philippines are plentiful. The relatively young age of the Filipino church and thousands of untrained pastors creates the need for sound teaching, leadership development, and application of the word. Additionally, opportunities abound to help with physical needs in the Philippines’ urban centers. With poverty woven throughout the fabric of its massive population, there are many chances to be the hands and feet of God by showing love to the poor, the needy, widows, and orphans. It is estimated that more than 1.2 million children live on the streets throughout the Philippines, 70,000 of whom live in Manila. The gospel should compel followers of Jesus to “do good to all people” by living for God instead of self (2 Cor. 5:15). Pray for the compassion, motivation, and ability to sacrificially meet the needs of believers and unbelievers in the Philippines and other contexts where great suffering exists. And pray to seize upon these opportunities as God presents them to all of us.
