Real People, Real Issues

Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? James 2:15-16

How many reading this are prepared to go out into the battlefield of hurting and lost souls when there is a need?  It is quite easy to stay in your Holy huddle comfort zone and not get your hands dirty but alas there are needs to be met and we are called to meet them. 

An acquaintance calls you scared he may have cancer and needs prayer. A neighbor is alone after a death in the family. A widow needs help moving. A family needs money to buy a new refrigerator as theirs broke. A family needs a car temporarily and you have an extra one. A person needs a babysitter for an emergency that came up. Missionaries are in town and need a place to sleep overnight. Or the really harder ones that take true commitment, an orphan needs a family. 

As you think about the meaning of walking with the Lord remember you are not on this earth solo, but you are here to share the love of Christ in tangible ways not just go hide and read your Bible. Something to think about. 

PRAYER: Prepare me Lord to open my heart to legitimate needs around me. Give me selflessness and courage and love. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Jesus To The World

Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to Angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2

The scenario was a stormy dark morning as I drove into Redstone Arsenal. As I proceeded down the road towards the post, before arriving at the security gate I saw a man in baggy pants, unkept hair, carrying plastic bags. He was covered up by a hoody. Not sure his story but I felt so terrible as I drove past him all dry in my nice car. There is a safety issue for a woman alone approaching a strange man so I drove on by like most others.

After this occurrence I said to myself, how many of us daily pass by people who are truly down and out? We all have seen those posted at interstate exits holding the sign saying they need money for food and in many cases those people are doing it fraudulently. But if deep inside your spirit is speaking to you to help someone as long as it is not at risk to your own safety do it.

 Bible teacher Joyce Meyer often says to maybe buy some gift cards and have them ready just in case you have the opportunity to be a blessing to someone. We never know if it is going to be us needing help someday. You really never do know if the person maybe is an angel in disguise. Just something to think about.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for blessing me. I am rich in the eyes of many. Help me be attune to any persons crossing my path who may need a kind word, some cash, or some other form of help. The best help I can be is to be Jesus to them. In Jesus' name. Amen.