A Life That Pleases God

Daily Rays of Hope #123

Sharing, Serving, and Shining for His Glory

Today’s Scripture:
"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."
— Hebrews 13:16 (NIV)

Living a life that pleases God is not confined to church buildings or grand spiritual acts. It is reflected in everyday choices. Hebrews 13:16 reminds us that doing good and sharing with others are simple yet powerful ways to offer sacrifices that delight the heart of God. When we pour ourselves out for others, we echo the love of Christ and participate in the divine call to serve and love beyond ourselves.

The command to do good is a thread that runs consistently through Scripture. Galatians 6:9-10 encourages us not to grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. It goes on to say, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” In a world that is often self-focused and self-protective, this scripture calls us to live open-handedly and open-heartedly.

To share what we have is to reflect the generosity of God. James 1:17 reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from above. Nothing we have is truly our own. When we give our time, our attention, our resources, and our love, we are simply stewarding what God has entrusted to us. This is not just generosity. It is worship. When we give with love and without expectation, our actions rise as a sweet offering to the Lord.

Jesus modeled this life of sacrifice. In John 13, He washed the feet of His disciples, showing them what humble service looks like. In Matthew 20:28, Jesus said that He did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. As His followers, we are called to walk in His footsteps. That means stepping out of comfort and into compassion. That means choosing to serve, to share, and to love without condition.

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gave what is now known as the Great Commission. He instructed us to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey all that He commanded. This is not a suggestion. It is a call to action. A life poured out for others is part of fulfilling this commission. When we share the Gospel and our lives with others, we become the hands and feet of Christ on the earth.

Philippians 2:4 reminds us, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” It is easy to become so wrapped up in our own needs, challenges, and goals that we forget the people around us. But God has placed us in specific communities, families, and environments for a reason. We are lights in dark places. We are salt in a flavorless world. When we love well and give freely, we point others to Jesus.

True worship is not just about lifting hands during a song. It is about laying down our lives in service to others. Romans 12:1 calls us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This is our true and proper worship. When we show up with love, kindness, and compassion, especially when it costs us something, it becomes worship. It honors God. It reflects His heart to a hurting world.

Do not underestimate the power of simple acts. A kind word, a listening ear, a meal shared, a prayer offered—these can become holy encounters when done with a heart surrendered to God. Hebrews 13:16 is a reminder that God sees every act of goodness and generosity. Nothing is wasted. Nothing is overlooked. These acts are precious to Him.

Three Practical Ways to Seek the Will of God Daily and Walk Out This Scripture:

1. Look for Opportunities to Do Good
   Start each day by asking God to open your eyes to someone who needs encouragement, help, or support. Be intentional about blessing others, even in small ways. Whether it is helping a neighbor or checking in on a friend, each act counts.

2. Share Freely from What You Have
   You may not feel like you have much, but your time, wisdom, and presence are valuable. Share your resources, your testimony, and your faith. Trust that God can multiply whatever you offer when given with a willing heart.

3. Serve as an Act of Worship
   Shift your mindset to see service as sacred. Whether you are volunteering at church, helping a coworker, or loving your family well, offer it up to God as worship. Invite His presence into every act of service and allow Him to work through you.

God is pleased when we reflect His heart. As we do good and share with others, we draw near to Him and reveal His love to the world. Let your life be a continual offering that glorifies the One who gave everything for you.