“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Phil. 2:4
Imagine how refreshing it would be to be surrounded by people who really think like that and actually live that way.
How would you like to work for a company where that is the resounding mission that resonates from every coworker? How would you like to have a church family where that is the conviction of every leader and every parishioner? How would you like a community where that is the code of ethics practiced by all your neighbors? How would you like a family where that is the lifestyle from morning until bedtime? How would you like to be the embodiment of that concept and participate in a complete reformation of your culture? Imagine… thoughtfully and intentionally helping people reach their goals. What a relationship-building concept. And it all starts with you. Could this be hidden in the Bible for those who pursue the righteous path of the LORD’s “chosen fast?”
“And the LORD will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.” Isa 58:11
Sounds like a pretty good result doesn’t it? Who wouldn’t want that for themselves? So, how does this manifest? Check out the verse immediately preceding that promise. Like most promises from God, there is a condition… it starts with the little word “if.”
“And if you give yourself to the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then your light will rise in darkness and your gloom will become like midday.” Isa. 58:10
But a charitable attitude is something you can have toward not only destitute people. Why not have that attitude toward those we interact with on a daily basis?

High on our priority list to find encouragement and perspective in times like these is to constantly regard our Lord’s ownership of everything He owns it all. We should always see ourselves as humble caretakers – stewards – of His property. Scripture repeatedly underscores God’s ownership of everything:
“To the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it” (Deuteronomy 10:14).“The land is mine and you are but aliens and my tenants” (Leviticus 25:23).
Our friend, historian Bill Federer, sent me his link to a YouTube presentation he made about the Interesting History of the Income Tax. It’s so good, I thought you’d like to hear it. So, I’m going to turn our attention today to Bill’s little talk.

Today’s world is filled with all sorts of deception.  Sharp discernment is required for those who really want to discover the things that are true.  If we don’t want truth we won’t search for it. …

Satisfying your own desire ultimately comes down to helping others reach their goals. “Give, and it will be given to you. They will *pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together and running…