August 5, 2017

A Charitable Heart

August 5, 2017

Daily Reading (Click to read each Scripture)

Matthew 7:7-11
Psalm 17:1-7, 15
This week’s sermon text: Romans 1:1-17

Field Notes
“Now, that which seems to be charity is oftentimes really sensuality, for man’s own inclination, his own will, his hope of reward, and his self-interest, are motives seldom absent. On the contrary, he who has true and perfect charity seeks self in nothing, but searches all things for the glory of God. Moreover, he envies no man, because he desires no personal pleasure nor does he wish to rejoice in himself; rather he desires the greater glory of God above all things. He ascribes to man nothing that is good but attributes it wholly to God from Whom all things proceed as from a fountain, and in Whom all the blessed shall rest as their last end and fruition.”
– Thomas à Kempis, “The Imitation of Christ”

Questions for the Field

  • Reflect today on your own internal motivations – are they springing from God or from selfish desires?

Family Field Talk

  • Try to find one place to be helpful today, then discuss how that was a service to God.

Prayer Guide
Praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Praise God all creatures here and below.
Praise God above ye heavenly host.
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Amen.