Written By: Chad Coons | CSUS CSALT Director
Photo By: Reed Burr | Media Coordinator

Have you ever been in the water when someone was in danger or in urgent need? What was your immediate reaction? I often think about when Mick Fanning was attacked by a shark at J-Bay, and Julian Wilson immediately started paddling toward his friend to help him. I find myself asking the question, “Would I respond the same way, especially when it involves real danger?”

That may be an extreme example, but every day we encounter people around us who need help. Some situations are extreme, which require life-saving measures. Others are small, like offering our attention. In moments like these, it’s easy to choose the safest, most comfortable, and most selfish route.

Recently, I’ve been convicted by a verse in Titus. 

Titus 3:14 reads, “And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.” 

When all is said and done, I hope I can look back on my life and know that I was someone who was devoted to meeting urgent needs and lived a fruitful life.

Responding to urgent needs does not always come naturally, but we have a God who gives us the strength to run headfirst into the urgent needs. He calls us to live selfless lives because they lead to fruit. When we live fruitful lives, we store up eternal treasures and can stand confidently before the Lord as faithful servants. 

Thank you, Lord!