‘Happy are those who are concerned for the poor; the Lord will help them when they are in trouble’ Psalm 41:1 (Goodnews Bible)
The world is filled with so much inequality and in recent times, the huge gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ has become even wider. Our passage today reminds us of our duties as Christians in this unequal world towards the poor around us. It also tells us of the benefits we stand to gain when we are generous to the poor.
It would seem being generous makes us poorer, but that is not the case! Each of us has something to offer another person – time, clothes, food, prayers, money. There will always be something you have that another does not and the more we give of ourselves to those in need, the more fulfilled our lives become. (Luke 6: 38)
There will always be poor people in the land (Deut. 15:11) and one of our obligations is to cater for them as much as we can. When we do, we not only put smiles on their faces, we also get blessed in return (Psalm 41:2-3).
What will you be willing to give to that cleaner in your office? That man on the street with tattered clothes? Or that child who walks barefooted to school every day? Your money, food, clothes, attention or prayers?
Today, let us spare a thought for the poor amongst us. Let us put a smile on the face of someone in need. Let us share whatever resource we have at our disposal with those that are in dire need of them. Remember like Abraham, you are blessed to bless others! (Genesis 28:14b).
Prayer Focus:
Faithful Father, Thank You for the resources that You’ve blessed me with. Grant me the grace and willingness to share these resources with those around me. Make me a blessing unto others in Jesus’ name.
Friday’s devotional was written by Olusola Oludayo. (@sholape1)