You will show me the path of life; in thy presence is fulness of joy; at your right hand there are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11

Not long ago, folks could hardly wait to get the morning newspaper, they wanted to know the news, the action. Back then, we had party lines, one phone for multiple households..neighbors listening in to hear the action. Today much has changed, we have websites and social media, news platforms at the touch of a finger, but it is all still about, the action! We start early, sometimes before we get out of bed, checking to see what is new for that day. Yet…we miss important first steps without even realizing it. Sometimes it steals time from our prayers and Bible study, we lose the time to dial in for the action God has planned for us that day!

Matthew 6:33 says we need to “seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you”, meaning that the good things that God would love to give us may be missed when we don’t take the time to put Him first in our day.

I think about our young people, our children, some are so totally absorbed in the action of video games that even bathroom breaks must be squeezed in between player levels and sometimes not at all! These are powerful tools that draw our children (and some adults also) into a separate world, sadly, one that it is difficult to leave. The action of competition is hard to put down or disconnect from.

These are realities in communities around the world, and at this time of year there is an additional night of action, Halloween. Most see it as a fun night to dress up and to go outside to compare costumes and “trick or treat”’ candy and other goodies. But is that really all it is? We know that while there is evil in this world there is also God’s presence and while the action of the night may seem more exciting, God also offers us action that impacts our hearts, minds, and futures, for eternity. It places the needs of others first. Christ-centered action builds character. Let us take a look at what these actions could be like in real life…what would Jesus do?

Instead of asking elderly people for candy ask, “Could I rake your leaves for you?”

Instead of spending money on costumes and decorations, is there a needy family you could help?

Instead of spending time shopping for costumes, you could use the time to bake cookies to share with your neighbor?

Remember when investing your time and talents in helping others you are actually investing in God’s work, and that is where the real action starts!

Let us keep in mind that there is an ongoing battle between good and evil, the great controversy. Which side do you think Halloween and its trappings are on? I invite you to do some research and decide for yourself. There is not much time left before Jesus comes…use it to reach out and care for others, even changing a heart for Eternity!

Our goal at Grace Abounds Ministries is to encourage you on your journey to find the joy and happiness that is found in Psalm 16:11. Heavenly Action! We hope that through these inspirational notes, radio clips, godly music, and the coming book, “Twenty-Two Days of Grace”, you will find the peace that God promises to all people who seek to know Him.

There you have it for this time. I will let you go so that you can begin your prayerful research in preparation for a different October 31. One that will give glory to our Lord and change hearts.

Please do not forget we are faith-based and need your prayers and donations of any size for God’s budget! Visit our website and leave us a note, we would love to hear from you! Remember that moreover the law entered, that the offense might abound (made clearer) but where sin abounds, grace does much more abound! Rom. 5:20 …until next time!