February 17

A Need I Can Meet

Because he was just and right in all his dealings. That is why God blessed him. He made sure that justice and help were given to the poor and needy, and everything went well for him. Isn’t that what it means to know me? asks the Lord.
Jeremiah 22:15b-16 (NLT)

Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it is in your power to help them.
Proverbs 3:27 (NLT)

Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.
James 4:17 (NLT)

This morning I read of Bunya, now a small boy in Cambodia. His mother left him wrapped in a shirt—abandoned in a hospital bed. He remained there for some time unattended, covered with ants and hungry. Praise God, he was found by Christians. Now he has a home at the Place of Rescue orphanage supported by Samaritan’s Purse.

Bunya’s story had a happy ending, but what of the 60,000 other orphans in that single country devastated by civil conflict and poverty? And what is my responsibility?

Someone recently shared this fact: “If you have a bank account, money in your purse, or change in a bag, you are one of the richest 8% of the world.”

By the world’s standards, I am rich. It is in my power to help others. I will give, because I know it is what God wants me to do, and because it is right and it pleases Him. How about you? Will you help too?

Father, bless these gifts so the poor and the needy may know of Your rich love. Amen.