DOING GOOD FOR MYSELF AND FOR THOSE AROUND ME I am faith-filled and fear-free because . . . I know what I have to do.

Along with God's promises come certain commands. We are not talking about the Ten Commandments. Nor are we talking about those edicts that pertain to a particular faith or religion.  We are talking about the  loving commands that God continues to whisper in our hearts, even when we don't want to hear them.  We are addressing those things that we know deepin our souls that we must do purely for the sake of our own good.  These commands drive us, inspire us and motivate us.  They keep us going.  These loving commands instruct us to do things that we know are best for us, and when we find reasons and excuses not to do them, they echo in our hearts as soon as we get in trouble.  They command us to do things that make us proud to be who we are, things we can pat ourselves on the back for doing even when those around us do not seem to take notice or care.  Only God recognizes and rewards us for doing things that we don't always like to do but are in direct response to the command God has placed in our hearts:  "Never grow tired of doing good!"The deeds we do in response to this command are the only things upon which we can build our faith in God, in ourselves, and in the process of life. Until today, you may have understood why you continue to do the good things that you do, even when it seems no one notices or cares.  Just for today, do good knowing it is in response to a command from God. Today I am devoted to doing good for myself and those around me!. From Until Today! by Iyanla Vanzant