Browsed by
Tag: extra

Go the Second Mile

Go the Second Mile

Comments 1 comment

Go the second mile--2 mile markerNot everyone knows that go the second mile is from the Bible.

Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) gave His followers clear, but far-from-ordinary, guidelines.

Officers in those days could force people’s assistance for one mile. No one was required to go farther. Yet, Jesus told his followers not to stop after mile one. Instead, he said to go the second mile.

Jesus encouraged going beyond what law or custom demands.

Go the second mile was only one of several examples.

Through Jesus’ words and life, we learn more than what to believe. We learn how to act.

He provided God’s model in a less-than-godly world. He continues to challenge His followers to let the light of God’s love shine by:

  • Service rather than selfishness.
  • Forgiveness rather than revenge.
  • Humility rather than pride.
  • Respect rather than dishonor.
  • Assistance rather than neglect.

In all we do, let’s go the second mile.

“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles” (Matthew 5:41 NIV).

Do you have a favorite expression or one you want explained? If so, please comment.

Subscribe to receive my weekly posts by email and receive a free copy of “Words of Hope for Days that Hurt.”

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends.

For Good Measure

For Good Measure

Comments 2 comments

For Good Measure--grocery scales above fruitMany of us prefer shopping at neighborhood stores and farmers markets. The product quality is only a small part of what makes them special. These merchants usually add extra to our purchase for good measure.

For good measure means more than a fair amount.

Such merchants believe giving extra is the right thing to do.If they lose a little money, that’s okay with them.

  • They value every customer.
  • We always receive fair treatment.

We like to buy from people we trust.

Even if their prices are higher than other stores, we still go there. They are our friends and neighbors. We go to the same activities and attend the same schools and churches.

However, they also give strangers more than necessary for good measure. Such kindness makes a difference in many lives.

Why not follow their example?

Let’s give more for good measure – more

  • Smiles
  • Encouragement
  • Financial help
  • Time
  • Attention to what matters most in life

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38 NIV)

Do you have a favorite expression or one you want explained? If so, please comment.

Subscribe to receive my weekly posts by email and receive a free copy of “Words of Hope for Days that Hurt.”

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends.