Outlive Your Life

1. Ordinary People Can Make an Extraordinary Difference

"God doesn't call the qualified. He qualifies the called."

God uses the ordinary. The early disciples were not exceptional individuals, but rather common folk with ordinary backgrounds. Fishermen, tax collectors, and laborers became the foundation of a world-changing movement. This principle still applies today, as God continues to use seemingly unremarkable people to accomplish remarkable things.

Everyone has a role to play. The story of Nicholas Winton, who saved 669 children from the Holocaust, illustrates how one person's actions can have a profound impact. Similarly, the author encourages readers to find their unique way to make a difference, whether through small daily acts of kindness or larger, more organized efforts.

Examples of ordinary people making a difference:

• Nicholas Winton saving children from the Holocaust
• Mother Teresa serving the poor in Calcutta
• Local volunteers in community service projects

2. Embrace Compassion and Break Down Barriers

"God has shown me that he doesn't think anyone is unclean or unfit."

Overcome prejudices. The early church faced significant cultural and religious barriers, particularly between Jews and Gentiles. Peter's vision and subsequent interaction with Cornelius demonstrate God's desire to break down these walls of separation.

Look beyond appearances. The author encourages readers to see people as God sees them, regardless of race, social status, or background. This involves intentionally stepping out of one's comfort zone and engaging with those who are different.

Ways to break down barriers:

• Engage in cross-cultural experiences
• Volunteer in diverse communities
• Challenge personal biases and stereotypes
• Seek to understand others' perspectives

3. Prioritize the Gospel While Serving Others

"Remember the bread."

Balance spiritual and physical needs. While meeting physical needs is crucial, the early church never lost sight of the importance of sharing the gospel. The author emphasizes the need to address both physical and spiritual hunger.

Share the message of hope. As Christians serve others, they should be prepared to explain the reason for their hope and share the good news of Jesus Christ. This doesn't mean neglecting practical help, but rather integrating it with spiritual truth.

Ways to balance service and evangelism:

• Pray for opportunities to share your faith while serving
• Be prepared to answer questions about your motivations
• Offer both practical assistance and spiritual encouragement
• Partner with ministries that address holistic needs

4. Unity and Teamwork Amplify Impact

"None of us can do what all of us can do."

Strength in numbers. The early church demonstrated the power of unity and collaboration. When believers work together, their impact is exponentially greater than what they could achieve individually.

Diverse gifts, common purpose. The author emphasizes that every believer has a unique role to play in God's plan. By recognizing and valuing the different gifts within the body of Christ, the church can more effectively meet the needs of a hurting world.

Benefits of teamwork in ministry:

• Shared resources and expertise
• Mutual encouragement and support
• Broader reach and impact
• Complementary strengths and abilities

5. Practice Radical Hospitality

"Hospitality opens the door to uncommon community."

Open your home and heart. The early church was characterized by its emphasis on hospitality. Believers regularly opened their homes for fellowship, teaching, and caring for those in need.

Create space for connection. The author encourages readers to view their homes as tools for ministry. By inviting others into our lives, we create opportunities for meaningful relationships and spiritual growth.

Practical ways to show hospitality:

• Regular meals with neighbors or newcomers
• Opening your home for small group meetings
• Hosting international students or missionaries
• Creating a welcoming environment for those in need

6. See the Need, Touch the Hurt

"Jesus never spoke to anyone else with such intensity. But when he saw the religious hypocrite, he flipped on the spotlight and exposed every self-righteous mole and pimple."

Intentional awareness. The author challenges readers to truly see the needs around them, rather than turning a blind eye to suffering. This involves developing a heightened sensitivity to the pain and struggles of others.

Tangible compassion. Following Jesus' example, Christians are called to not only see needs but also to respond with practical, tangible acts of compassion. This often involves personal sacrifice and stepping out of one's comfort zone.

Ways to cultivate compassion:

• Volunteer at local service organizations
• Spend time in underprivileged communities
• Listen to the stories of those who are hurting
• Pray for increased sensitivity to others' needs

7. Stand Firm in the Face of Persecution

"Courage comes as we live with Jesus."

Expect opposition. The early church faced significant persecution, and believers today should be prepared for resistance when living out their faith. The author reminds readers that following Christ often comes at a cost.

Draw strength from Christ. The key to standing firm in the face of persecution is a deep, abiding relationship with Jesus. By spending time in His presence and meditating on His Word, believers can find the courage to remain faithful under pressure.

Strategies for facing persecution:

• Study biblical examples of perseverance
• Connect with other believers for support
• Pray for those who oppose you
• Remember the eternal perspective

8. Beware of Hypocrisy and Self-Promotion

"To do a good thing is a good thing. To do good to be seen is not."

Check your motives. The story of Ananias and Sapphira serves as a stark warning against hypocrisy and seeking personal glory in ministry. The author emphasizes the importance of examining one's heart and motives in serving others.

Pursue genuine humility. True service is motivated by love for God and others, not a desire for recognition or praise. The author encourages readers to cultivate a spirit of humility and to seek God's approval rather than human accolades.

Ways to guard against hypocrisy:

• Regularly examine your motives
• Practice anonymous giving and service
• Avoid broadcasting your good deeds
• Seek accountability from trusted friends

9. Champion Justice for the Marginalized

"Poverty is not the lack of charity but the lack of justice."

Advocate for the vulnerable. The early church took seriously Jesus' call to care for the poor, widows, and orphans. The author challenges readers to actively work for justice and equality in their communities and beyond.

Address root causes. While meeting immediate needs is important, Christians are also called to address the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty and injustice. This may involve engaging in advocacy, education, and social reform efforts.

Ways to promote justice:

• Support organizations working for systemic change
• Educate yourself on issues of poverty and inequality
• Use your voice and resources to advocate for the marginalized
• Get involved in local community development initiatives

10. Remember Your Place in God's Plan

"We think we're shaking up the world when actually we're just along for the ride."

Maintain perspective. The author reminds readers that while God uses them to accomplish His purposes, ultimately, He is the one orchestrating the grand narrative of redemption. This perspective helps guard against pride and promotes humility in service.

Embrace your role. Understanding one's place in God's plan leads to a sense of purpose and contentment. Rather than striving for recognition or comparing oneself to others, believers can find joy in faithfully fulfilling the role God has given them.

Ways to cultivate a proper perspective:

• Regularly study God's Word to understand His larger plan
• Practice gratitude for God's work in and through you
• Celebrate the contributions of others in God's kingdom
• Seek to decrease so that Christ may increase

11. The Power of Earnest Prayer

"Our passionate prayers move the heart of God."

Prioritize prayer. The early church faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, yet they consistently turned to prayer as their first response. The author emphasizes the vital role of earnest, persistent prayer in effecting change and advancing God's kingdom.

Expect God to act. The story of Peter's miraculous release from prison illustrates the power of corporate prayer. The author encourages readers to pray with expectation, believing that God is able and willing to respond to the cries of His people.

Ways to cultivate a vibrant prayer life:

• Set aside specific times for focused prayer
• Join or start a prayer group
• Keep a prayer journal to record requests and answers
• Fast periodically to intensify your prayers

12. Recognize Jesus in the Faces of the Needy

"When we love those in need, we are loving Jesus."

See Christ in others. The author reminds readers of Jesus' teaching that whatever we do for "the least of these," we do for Him. This perspective transforms acts of service from mere charity to sacred encounters with Christ Himself.

Eternal significance. By recognizing Jesus in the faces of the needy, believers are motivated to serve with greater compassion and dedication. Every act of kindness takes on eternal significance when viewed through this lens.

Ways to cultivate this perspective:

• Meditate on Matthew 25:31-46
• Pray for God's eyes to see people as He sees them
• Look for opportunities to serve "the least of these" in your community
• Reflect on how your actions toward others reflect your love for Christ

Last updated: July 20, 2024