Caring For The Poor And Needy

I love how James speaks of the rich and poor in James, chapter 2. What he says is right on with the society we live in, and even with many Christians. How often do people go to church and would rather sit next to those who look and smell good, than people who have old clothes on and may smell bad? So often people who look presentable are the ones they associate with before and after church, where the poor are left alone. This is so sad but true. On this topic, James said, “my brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?” (James 2:1-4) What you are doing, as James said, is causing people who don’t have much money or are homeless to leave the church and not want to come back. You may not think this happens, but it does. What you can do is make a change in your life and start caring for the poor, the homeless, and the needy in church and without. This can only happen when you open your heart to God and begin to be led by His hand.

James also said the following in regards to the poor and rich of this world. He said, “hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.” (James 2:5-9) Here we learn how the rich people of this world are the ones that often don’t do much for us, but often put burdens upon us because of their wealth and stature. There are many atheists in this camp also, which blaspheme God in their words and their lifestyle. But then we have the poor and homeless of this world, whom many rich people walk right past without thinking. Even Christians are those who walk or drive past them without even stopping to pray for them. This is very sad, for it tears me to pieces to see people suffer like this, who do not stop and help. Because God’s love is in me, I would not feel right if I didn’t love them and care for their needs. Please think about this. God wants to do a work in your life that blesses all kinds of different people.

Let us pray:
Oh Lord, I pray that You will help us learn to love every person on earth, including our enemies. And help us not to look over the poor without lending a hand to help them. I am often left saddened when I walk down the streets and see nobody stopping to help the homeless with signs. Sure, some of them may use the money we give for drugs or alcohol, but we cannot count them all out because of some. You have taught me this and I am so grateful. The best part about stopping to help the poor and needy is how humble they are to receive the gospel. So I now have time to not only care for their needs but to pray and witness Your truths to them. These experiences are like nothing I’ve ever had before. Surely, they are memories that I will never forget. I wish people could understand the need to stop and also get them some food, water, and even just talk with them for a moment. What I’ve noticed, God, is that often these wonderful people just need another person to talk to and this one act will brighten their whole day. And I believe, God, that You were the one who has made me a cheerful giver. Not just in church, but to people I see in stores and on the streets. I want to live like You did, Jesus. So I pray that the Holy Spirit will be ever with me. May I continue to love as You love. I love You, Lord, and wish to share Your love with all the world. Amen.

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