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Oh, how grateful we are when someone helps us out of a virtual ditch! When we find ourselves in need and someone brings us a meal, lends us a hand, comforts us with a hug. Words of encouragement, a lunch paid for, a kindness done for us . . . this makes us appreciate humankind.

After sending a note of thanks or an embrace of appreciation, we go on our way with a skip in our step and a song in our heart, reminded that others care.  They really are there to hear our hurts and to lend us that much needed shoulder.

Each of us may begin our day assuming one of two outcomes. On one hand, we may struggle through, just trying to make ends meet or hold our tongues and bide our time—only to go to bed that night disappointed, thinking tomorrow won’t be any different. On the other hand, we may wake up believing that God will meet our needs and give us opportunities to share our love with others.

Our beautiful God breathes life into us. He shapes us by our experiences, our mentors, our hardships, our hidden protection. Those who lift our spirits are kindhearted, giving people who know what it’s like to need generosity. They feel the need to return the favor and “do the right thing.”

Jesus-loving Christians know that their purpose on this earth is to emulate our Lord Jesus Christ. To give because He gives; to love because He loves; to care because He cares. And to show grace because He extends grace to us.

People are attractive to watch when they are in a state of big-heartedness. But let’s never forget that Jesus’ acts trump our generosity and kindness toward others at every turn. Showing gratitude to those who help us is the right thing to do. But let’s stay mindful that there is no guarantee they will be able to help us for all of our lifetime.

Only One can keep that promise. Only One will meet every need. Only He has given His word to protect our souls. For this we can be grateful and forever thankful in every season of our lives.  None can compare with the grace, the selflessness and the burning love which Christ embodies on our behalf.

On our knees, Lord, we thank You, with all we know how to express.

Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

Hebrews 13:15