Hebrews 13:16 (NKJV)
¹⁶ But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Doing good is a vital characteristic of a Christian. When we do good, we are following in the steps of Jesus.

Acts 10:36-38 (ESV)
³⁶ As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), ³⁷ you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Gali-lee after the baptism that John proclaimed: ³⁸ how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

To imitate Christ, which is what being a Christian really is, we must not forget to do good. Paul exhorted the brethren in Galatia to do good consistently.

Galatians 6:9-10 (ESV)
⁹ And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. ¹⁰ So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

While we should never do good with the primary motive of getting something in return, we can be encouraged by the natural law of sowing and reaping. If we sow, we will reap. In this case, Paul is talking about sowing the seed of good works, referring especially to the works of kindness and charitable deeds.

In scripture, good works often refer to sharing our means with others who are less fortunate. This is what the Hebrews writer was referring to in the passage cited above. Paul reminded Timothy of the importance of helping others, and his words to him are applicable to us as well.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV)
¹⁷ As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. ¹⁸ They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, ¹⁹ thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

Who are the rich of this present age? Compared to most of the world, the average American is rich. If you are reading this blog, that probably means you have a computer, tablet, cell phone, or some other electrical gadget that would be considered a luxury to many people in the world. The point is, while many around the world struggle to put food on the table, most of us fare pretty well. Let us not forget to share what we have when the opportunity presents itself. In due season we will reap what we sow. That does not mean we will reap some kind of financial gain. We will reap something much greater. We will reap eternal life.

God has blessed us with the ability to remember. Let us take advantage of this, never forgetting the important things in life, especially those things that honor God and help those around us.

As you wind down for the night, think about these things.