But David said, “No, my brothers! Don’t be selfish with what the Lord has given us. He has kept us safe and helped us defeat the band of raiders that attacked us. Who will listen when you talk like this? We share and share alike – those who go to battle and those who guard the equipment.” – 1 Samuel 30: 23-24

As I continue to grow in Christ, one of the biggest concerns I have about sharing my faith is being perceived as a “Holier Than Thou,” Bible-toting, religious zealot.

I never want to come off as though I’m turning my nose up at others in moral superiority.

Because I know that type of behavior directly opposes God’s command for us to love.

But Satan is always busy.

And if we’re not careful to guard our hearts and minds with the love of Jesus Christ, he will swoop in and trick us into feeling self-righteous and boastful about our spiritual walk.

This is what happened to some of the men in David’s army after they defeated the Amalekites in the book of 1 Samuel.

When David and his army went to battle the Amalekites, 200 of the 600 men he led were too exhausted to cross the Brook of Besor to fight.

So they stayed behind to rest and guard the equipment.

But when David and his army returned to meet them, Scripture says that “evil troublemakers” among David’s camp didn’t want to share the plunder with those who stayed behind.

They put themselves on a pedestal because they felt they’d demonstrated more faith and loyalty to God.

Instead of sharing the spoils of their victory, they eagerly jumped on the opportunity to shun and shame.

So in our interactions with others, we have to ask ourselves: Are we sharers or are we shunners?

If we know someone who is out of fellowship with Christ, do we look down on them or do we encourage them with Scripture, offer to pray with them, and show them genuine care and concern?

Do we withhold kindness from others because they don’t act the way we act or think the way we think, or do we treat others with respect, love, and understanding?

If our hearts are not set on serving others and sharing all of our love with them, then unfortunately, our hearts are in the wrong place.

The love of Christ is patient, kind, compassionate, and understanding. It doesn’t boast and it isn’t self-serving.

So we must ask the Holy Spirit to fill us up with that love each and every day so that others will be comforted by our presence and not made to feel inadequate, ashamed, or embarrassed.

Be blessed,

Alexia