I see them everywhere I go. They’re tired parents, frazzled spouses, burned-out employees…relatable people, going through different circumstances and situations that we’ve all been through. In fact we’ve probably seen them in their frustrations and thought, “I know exactly how you feel!� Yet, how often do we offer a kind word or smile? Sometimes, we selfishly look the other way so as not to be inconvenienced by others’ troubles. Or, maybe it’s fear that our good gesture will be rejected by a stranger. Other times we assume another person is more qualified and in a better position to encourage another. But, did you know that the Bible says that when we choose not to act it is as much of a sin as deliberately hurting others? Proverbs 3 has an entire list of ways to avoid treating others and ‘withholding good from others’ is at the top of the list followed by ‘harming others’! (v.27-35) Our inaction is placed in the same category as wrong and unjust behavior. The definition of “withholding good� might differ depending on who you ask, and then, it may be endlessly debated! The good news is that it doesn’t really matter who is right because we have been given the power to do something about it! God has granted us the power to do good things and free will to choose to do it.

When we lean on the Almighty for the strength to do good things. We don’t have to be afraid to step out of our comfort zone. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.² God’s Spirit fills us with His power which in turn fills us with His Love for others granting a healthy mind! And who today doesn’t strive for mental health?

As Christians, we have a responsibility to others. We have the power to show kindness and love, especially to those who are lacking. We won’t be able to make every situation better but equipped with the power of the Holy Spirit we can no longer ignore the opportunity to show goodness to others. After all, in the words of “Uncle Benâ€� â€" “With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility!â€� And we have a Great and Powerful God!

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord, I long to be more like You and You are Love and Mercy and Kindness. Fill me with Your power so that I can show Your Goodness to all that need more of You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1.    Proverbs 3:27 (ESV).

2.    2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.