It seems the holidays bring out the more generous side of people. I work at a non-profit and can attest that the closer we get to Christmas, the more we receive donations. I know sometimes we get stuck in our own world but there are so many people in need around the world.
God’s great compassion for the poor and disadvantaged people is so evident throughout the Bible. It’s astounding to me that the creator of the universe who sees everything is concerned for the “least” in society. Those who are taken advantage of by those who hold power. I was reading Amos 8:4-11 and realized how angry God gets at those who take advantage of others. Especially when we don’t help when we have the power to.
This leads me to two points to ponder…
1. Have we become complacent with helping people? Do we stay in our comfort zone and turn a “blind eye” instead of lending a hand or speaking out for justice? The needy to me are not only the poor but those who are being abused by others. Zechariah 7:10 says, “Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.”
2. What are YOU doing to help? As Christians, we are called to follow and become more like God every day. If we’re truly doing that, then we won’t ignore defending the powerless and needy. The word poor is mentioned around 142 times in the Bible. The word justice is mentioned around 138 times. Do you think that’s by accident?
Part of the beauty of helping others is that we are blessed in return. Proverbs 28:27 says, “Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.” I’ve been on both the receiving and giving side of things as I’m sure you have. Words can’t express what a blessing it is to have someone there when you need it. It’s also equally rewarding to help others who are in a tough spot.
When we do give of our time or finances, it’s important to do it with a humble spirit. Jesus makes it evident that giving to impress other people does not impress Him (Matthew 6:1-4). It makes you look bad.
The Lord Jesus even went as far to say, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me’ (Matthew 25:40). Did you catch that? How we treat the least of people in society (poor, widower, fatherless, foreigners) is how we treat God Himself. Need I say more?
This song that came out called “Defender” by Rita Springer has brought me so much peace and reassurance. The Lord is our defender but who is defending the powerless? I pray every morning for the Lord to protect the innocent and provide for those that need provision. But, how many of you know that sometimes we need to do more than pray? God brings people and opportunities for us to help but are we missing them?
“But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.”
1 John 3:17-18
Most of us walk with our heads down in a hurry to get in and get out of places. Let’s start to acknowledge others existence and treat them like a valuable human being. I’m so thankful we have a Father that doesn’t rush past us when we have needs.
Everyone has a story and has been through something tough. I urge you to be on the lookout. Become a defender to those in need. We can’t help everyone but we can look for opportunities and follow the Lord’s leading. At the very least, we can start noticing others around us.
A Prayer For You
Lord Jesus, please forgive me for not loving people as I should. Give me Your eyes to see people how You do. Show me how I can help. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Stay Hopeful!
*All Bible verses are in NIV