I have been feeling guilty (or convicted) for not helping a family I know who is in need. They are so sweet, but they have fallen on hard times. And although I have prayed for them and prayed with them, I haven’t done anything to help them get by. I remember when we had our last child, over ten years after the others, this precious family gave us so many needed baby items. Also my adult son still recalls them as good Sunday school teachers. Recently the mom helped in a Play my child was in. Over the years, in so many ways, they have given of themselves to our family. How can I best help them?
God’s word to us: The excuses seem endless why we haven’t helped people. I say in my word, “If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord and He will repay you.” And I do, I will make good on that promise. And I will give your family wisdom on how to help theirs. And because they are fellow believers, this is how the body of Christ, The Church, works – loving and helping one another. Think now how would you like to help them?
If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord—and he will repay you! Proverbs 19:17
We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. I John 3:16-18
My Heart’s Cry for you is to listen to the tug on your heart to help. Pray to God for wisdom because He knows what they need. You could ask them too what their most urgent need is. They may need a babysitter while they go to an important appointment or job interview. They may need clothing for their children that your child has recently outgrown. This is why praying and even asking the family is wise.
Another thought is have a line in your budget set up for helping people. I used to have a benevolence envelop in my purse that I would put a specified dollar amount in every month and that worked well. Recently we’ve been using gift cards for gas and food for my husband and I to always have on hand. This has helped in many ways. It reminds us we are called to be givers, we are ready to give and it keeps our giving on a budget.
Always remember when helping people that God is the rescuer. We are to listen to him and do our part. Just this week I was asked for money for gas so a friend could get to work. I prayed and heard I was not to help. So I prayed for her situation and that God would provide what she needed somehow. I have full confidence God helped in some way. Maybe not even the way she anticipated. But I’ve learned over the years to fully lean on God for guidance. He holds their plan. And He knows when I am to be apart of it.
No more excuses. Pray for wisdom today. And help accordingly. Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. I John 3:18
May God bless you and guide you as you consider helping a family in need. -Kim
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