AUGUST 25, 2 Thessalonians 3:13

“Jacob told me that his dad got a bonus at his job,” reported Alex one day. “What’s a bonus, Mom?” “A bonus is something good that you get in addition to what you have earned–something extra,” explained Mom.

Alex liked that idea. “I wish I could get a bonus,” he said. “Well, here’s an idea,” said Mom, “Every day, think of one or two things you can do for other people. Then, do them. Try it for a week and see what happens.” Alex was thoughtful for a moment. “You mean I’ll get bonuses for helping?” he asked, “Who will give them to me? Whoever I help?”

“Not always. In a way, they come from God,” said Mom, “The Bible says, ‘Give, and it will be given to you… pressed down… and running over…. or with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again ’ So the bonuses are actually from God, but they usually come through people. Some may not even come in this life, but the bonuses do come.”

Alex decided to try it. That week, he washed his uncle’s car, he was extra helpful in folding clothes; he even tried to help mum cook! “My experiment is going pretty well,” Alex told his mother one day, “but I don’t think that I really got any bonuses yet.”

“Well, think about it,” said Mom. “How do you feel when you’ve done something nice for someone?” As he thought it over, Alex realised that he felt happy when he finished a job. “I feel good,” he replied, “and you know what else? When I help people, they smile at me a lot, too.”

Mom nodded. “That sounds like a bonus to me!” she said, “The Bible says, Jesus went about doing good, and you’ve been doing that, too. I know He’s pleased with you, and that’s worth a lot.” “I guess so,” agreed Alex, “but once in a while it would be nice to get something I can hold in my hand.”

“True,” said Mom. Opening the freezer door, she added, “Right now, you may have the bonus of an ice cream bar for cleaning the table without being told.” Alex grinned happily.

Thought: Have you been ‘doing good’ as Jesus did? Have you been helpful at home?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, it is such a precious lesson that I have learnt today that I may have neighbours or people around me who would appreciate a little help. Teach me to look out for opportunities to assist others. As I give of myself to others and be a blessing to them, I will be blessed by You as well. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.