We are taught to pray for one another and to ask others to pray for us. We are also admonished by God’s apostles to not hang out with unbelievers and those who work wickedness in the sight of God. This way we can be kept from evil and walk on God’s holy path. There are people in the faith that are good examples of this and we can follow their examples also. All this was taught by Paul in 2 Thessalonians 3, which reads, “finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-7)
Paul also spoke out about people who don’t want to work, but still desire for us to feed them and give them money. To these people, we can help them find jobs but are not do things that just keeps them working on the streets instead of getting off of it. Paul said this in regards to this matter. “Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.” (2 Thessalonians 3:8-13) I love to give to the homeless, but now I am more wise when I do give to people who are really struggling and not just people who never wish to get off the streets in the first place. We must be wise in this area and only God can help us gain wisdom to do this. May God be with you in your journey. Amen.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, I love You and only wish that You would lead me in the ways of righteousness. I just know that my own desires get in the way so often and I am very sorry for this. In my own strength, I fall into sin and do things I know are wrong. That is why I come to You so often for help, that You may keep me strengthened and not let me fall. I know You understand what I go through in life and am so grateful for Your patience and continued forgiveness for my sins. It is my true desire to learn from You daily, even from the Bible, in prayer and in church. Give me guidance and direction that will keep me on Your path and not let me go astray. I love my friends, but am willing to not hang out with some of them if they lead me to do things that are evil. Following You is more important than keeping any friendships with people. And help me know who and when to give to people. I get many requests to help people on Facebook and never really who needs help or not. Give me wisdom in these things and also when I am on the streets and encounter the homeless. I trust in Your guidance and direction. Speak to me, Lord. I love You. Amen.
