In what ways can we encourage others to experience God's goodness? Key Verse: Psalm 34:8 “Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!” The Invitation to Taste • “Taste” is a hands-on word—an open challenge to move beyond second-hand reports and sample God’s character personally. • David’s call is echoed throughout Scripture: – “Now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.” (1 Peter 2:3) – “Whoever comes to Me will never hunger.” (John 6:35) • Because God’s goodness is real and present, we can confidently invite others to experience it just as literally as they would taste honey or bread. Practical Ways to Help Others Experience God’s Goodness • Share your testimony – “Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for me.” (Psalm 66:16) – Personal stories turn doctrine into living proof. • Extend genuine hospitality – “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13) – A warm table often opens cold hearts. • Meet tangible needs – “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father.” (Matthew 5:16) – Acts of service let people taste God’s kindness before they understand it. • Speak Scripture out loud – “My word…will not return to Me void.” (Isaiah 55:11) – Reading or texting a verse gives others a direct sampling of His voice. • Invite into worship and community – “Let us consider how to spur one another on…not neglecting to meet together.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) – Shared praise multiplies joy and curiosity. • Pray for spiritual hunger – “I keep asking…that He may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation.” (Ephesians 1:17-18) – God awakens taste buds that are numb. • Model consistent, joyful obedience – “Keep your conduct honorable…so they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” (1 Peter 2:12) – A steady life of integrity makes God’s goodness credible. • Celebrate answered prayer publicly – “Recount all that God had done.” (Acts 14:27) – Testimony sessions whet appetites for more of Him. • Offer forgiveness and grace – “Be kind and tenderhearted…forgiving each other.” (Ephesians 4:32) – Undeserved mercy shocks people into noticing divine goodness. • Encourage daily “taste tests” in the Word – “How sweet are Your words to my taste!” (Psalm 119:103) – Suggest a short psalm or gospel story as a starting point. • Point to creation’s witness – “The heavens declare the glory of God.” (Psalm 19:1) – A sunrise or starlit sky can stir fresh awe. Guarding the Flavor • Avoid hypocrisy—nothing sours the invitation faster (Romans 2:24). • Speak truth with gentleness; harsh tones distort God’s sweetness (Ephesians 4:29). • Keep Christ at the center; good deeds without the gospel leave souls hungry (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Next Steps • Choose one person this week and offer a specific act of hospitality or service. • Share one recent answered prayer in conversation or on social media, giving God the credit. • Send a verse—Psalm 34:8 itself is a concise, compelling appetizer—to someone who needs hope. |
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