Helping the Poor

Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God. Proverbs 14:21

As we live our day-to-day lives, it is easy for many of us to take for granted all of the basic essentials that we have and enjoy every day. We have a roof over our heads where we sleep in a bed at night. We most likely have a closet full of clothes to choose from each morning. We have electricity allowing us to store and cook food, control the temperature in our homes, take hot showers, and the list goes on. But not everyone is so fortunate.

Regardless of the extent of the lack of what most of us would consider necessities or the circumstances that got them there, countless individuals live in the reality every day that they are barely able to get by. They are everywhere, including where you live, where you work, the places you frequent. You walk past without another thought, unaware of the needs around you. You may not even notice them, but they are there.

Count Your Blessings

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

So where do you start? Surprisingly, it may be by taking inventory of the blessings in your own life. How has God provided for you? What are some of the things you have that you feel you couldn’t do without? A home? Food? Clothing? Surely you could compile a long list of the things God has supplied you with.

You can’t stop there though. It is important to not only be aware of how God has supplied your needs but to take the time to express your gratitude. When you take time to think about all of the things you are grateful for and to whom you owe gratitude, it changes your heart. You will begin to not only see what you have but look around and see what others don’t and consider what you can do to help.

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done. Proverbs 19:17

Now it’s time to put thoughts into action. If you are wondering how you can be generous to the poor and needy with the resources the Lord has given you, ask Him. Search your heart. If you feel like you may be able to be a blessing to others who may have less than you, reach out to us today. Someone will get back with you shortly to help you figure out how to get started in your journey toward making a difference in the lives of the poor and needy, one step at a time, through your kindness and generosity.