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Mission: The Work of Worship

8Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
    for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;
    defend the rights of the poor and needy.      (Proverbs 31:8-9 NIV)

Have you ever heard someone say that their favourite verse in the Bible is “God helps those who help themselves”?

The problem is that this so-called verse is not in the Bible! It’s source? Ben Franklin’s Poor Richard’s Almanac, 1757. In fact, the bible says almost the opposite – instructing God’s people to help those who can’t help themselves.

Take the passage above, for example, the first nine verses of Proverbs 31 are advice from a queen mother to her son, the king. She’s urging him to rule his people with mercy and compassion, reminding him to use his exalted position and immense power to help the helpless. But the principles in these verses apply to all followers of Christ (see Psalm 82:3-4; 2 Corinthians 9:8-9). We’re called to be imitators of God (see Ephesians 5:1) and, let’s face it, who cares for the poor more than He does (see Proverbs 14:31)?

When was the last time you got your hands dirty helping out in a low-income neighbourhood? Visited inmates in a nearby jail? Paid a visit to an orphanage or nursing home? Helped a mentally challenged person? Challenged unfair treatment to vulnerables?

Do something today that will allow your good deeds to shine for your heavenly Father. Make an anonymous donation to a local charity. Sweep a neighbour’s sidewalk without telling them – if anyone asks, say you are doing it for Jesus!

Worship is not just about singing or praying at a certain time and in a certain place. It is a mindset. It is a way of life. It is missional. It is a heart that beats for God and looks constantly for ways to spread His righteous reputation in the world. When we live as worshipers, every place is holy, every moment is significant and every action is eternal.

If any one asks, say you’re doing it for Jesus!