The Bible Edge
Everyone needs an Edge, Believers can have the Bible Edge
Matthew 5:41
And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
“And then some.” These three simple words set forth a mindset, a work ethic, a manner of life that is sure to bring some measure of success to any and all who embrace it. The Lord Jesus is the one who articulated this Bible Edge teaching. He does not go into detail, He does not explain why, He does not give a promise associated with going the second mile. He simply puts it out there for all to hear. Some will “go the extra mile” some won’t. With which would you rather do business?
The extra mile type, right? Right!
There is a phrase that has gained popularity over the past few years, “Be the change.” This communicates that whatever change needs to take place, you lead the way, be the change. The same thought is behind the teaching of our Lord. If individuals need to go the extra mile, start it by going the extra mile.
Years ago, my daughter had several of those “American Doll” dolls. One of them was damaged by our dog, lost her arm, I think. We sent the doll back to the company which repaired her arm and returned her to my daughter. All they needed to do is return her to us, that is all we expected, but we received so much more. The doll was in a little hospital bed, she was wearing a hospital gown, and there were instructions on how to care for the doll just as if she had just had surgery. This was the extra mile. This was “and then some.” What a memory that little extra effort created for our family.
Look for ways to go the extra mile. The effort will not go unnoticed.
The idea of “and then some” simply put is this. Do all that is required and then some. Do more than is required. Do that which needs to be done then do a little more. In today’s uncertain economic climate wherein many are being laid off, furloughed or whatever other fancy name they give to losing a job, having a work habit of “and then some” may help you keep that job. When someone needs to be promoted, the continual practice of “and then some” may win the promotion. Or, upon looking in a mirror a person may truly be satisfied with their work knowing that they did all that was required, and more.
When Abraham sent his choice servant to find a wife for Isaac (an unenviable task no doubt) Rebekah did that which was expected and then some. She brought the servant water, but then in going the extra mile she watered his camels also. She was rewarded in her time.
If anyone chooses to learn the edge that Jesus taught in today’s verse, they too will be rewarded in their time and place. After all, every obedience to the Lord and His Word brings blessings, seen and unseen. So, today, do what needs to be done, and then do some more. Go the extra mile.
William Howe, Ph.D.