40 Acts 2014 - Day Fifteen: ' MORE '

It's easy to do the bare minimum, isn't it?

Or even to simply get the job done.

Our time is precious, after all, and our energy is limited. But there's a universal secret to delighting others: unexpected and undeserved abundance. Going above and beyond. Putting in 110%. Walking the extra mile.

Pick your metaphor and dive right in today.

I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. I can do all things which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfil His purpose – I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.

(Philippians 4:12–13 AMP)

Going the extra mile is not just a phrase in our household. It is a lifestyle. Based on Philippians 4:12–13, we have always raised our daughters with the knowledge and belief that they are able to do above and beyond what they think they are physically capable of, because of the God that we serve. In this way, going the extra mile isn’t extraordinary; it becomes the norm.

So how does going the extra mile impact on our lives?

Our family are big givers but, just as we give to and invest in others, God has poured his abundant blessing into us, often from the most unexpected of sources!

Our daughters both mentor and speak into the lives of young people, sharing personal struggles to reassure them that ‘pastor’s kids’ live a normal life too! They share about the challenges they have met as Christian teens (now adults) in a world that doesn’t particularly encourage faith! Kofi and I share our personal ups and downs regularly from the pulpit, to show what God has done in our own lives to encourage others. This would not be possible through our own strength. For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfil your purpose] for His good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13 AMP)

For our family ‘going the extra mile’ means being real and shining the spotlight on the less than perfect parts of ourselves to encourage and strengthen others. In being available to be used by God and trusting him wholly, our openness and vulnerability has always been met with love and appreciation. So step out of your comfort zone; lean entirely on your faith and trust God to have the rest.

Today's blog was written by Kofi and Jayne Banful from Praise Christian Centre. 
Find out more about them and support their chosen charity here.

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