That’s More Than I Am Supposed to Do

by Harry E. Rice

Practically all progress in the world has been made by those who did more than their share, "more than they were supposed to do."

Our independence was won by George Washington and his men who "did more than they were supposed to do" as they suffered privation at Valley Forge while others were living in luxury not far away. Many a lad has been set up in business or given a college education by parents who "did more than they were supposed to do" while neighbor boys are left without a start in life by satisfied parents. Many a sick child has been brought back to health by a sacrificing mother who did more than her share.

The church of the Lord has been established in many places in America by sacrificing Christians who did far more than their share - they could have worshipped down the street - but they did more than they were supposed to do (according to the opinion of men) and established the Lord's church.

Most of the work around the church building is done by Christians who "do more than they are supposed to do" while many are perfectly willing that they should do it. (This reminds me of something I heard one time. A preacher was asked if there was anyone at the church where he preached that was willing to work. He said, "Everyone in this church is willing, five percent are willing to work, and the other 95 percent are willing to let them do it." - t.t.). If it were not for those who do more than they are supposed to do by giving themselves, this congregation wouldn't grow but would stagnate and die.

After all, "doing more than we are supposed to do" as men judge is the very crux of Christianity. It means 'going more than halfway,' 'turning the other cheek,' 'loving one's enemies,' 'praying for those who persecute us,' 'giving money to the needy,' and 'working for the Lord while others are engaged in pleasure.' Yes, it means all this and more. But this will bring eternal life for the faithful, all of whom "did more than they were supposed to do."