DOING good to others can be a challenge. Those to whom we show love may not reciprocate. Although we seek the spiritual welfare of people by endeavouring to share with them “the glorious good news of the happy God” and his Son, they may be apathetic or ungrateful. 

Galatians 6:10 - Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people...

The thought here is that we will be favoured with the opportunity and the power to do good. It doesn't mean that we do good when it is convenient or when it will advance our interests or when it will contribute to fame. The rule is we are to do good whenever we have an opportunity whether it benefits us or not. We are to do good no matter how many times situations arise; no matter how much self-denial it may cost us and no matter how little fame we may get by doing it. If the opportunity arises to do good we must do it and be thankful for the privilege. We must do good to all men not just our family or people we like. We are to do good especially to other believers.

St Paul points us past our labours to the prize at the end: those who persevere in doing good are promised to reap rewards. When we become disheartened, the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit brings relief and gratitude to our hearts and glory to God. Just like the sower of seed must wait for the harvest, the Christian must wait patiently for the rewards that will inevitably come from the Giver of all good things (James 1:17). We will not give up, because our Lord is faithful. “Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). 

“Keep doing good no matter what they say or do, God won't let you down.” - DJ Tira (South African House DJ)

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centred.  Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.  Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.  Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.  Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.  Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.  Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten.  Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.  Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God.  It was never between you and them anyway.

-        - St Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa)

Remember, the words of Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

“Start by doing what is necessary; then do what is possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” -St. Francis of Assisi.

Pax et bonum (Peace and all good).

Ashley Mwanza