Help Those Less Fortunate

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(Pro 31:20)She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

Last time we looked at the virtuous woman we talked about not taking our blessings for granted. How fitting that the next verse talks about helping others. There are a couple of lessons we can learn from this.

First, notice the word her: She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She didn't sit around and wait for anyone else to help; she took initiative! Often today we hear people saying, "Helping the poor is the church's job". What they mean is, "The elders and deacons of the congregation I attend should be doing that!" While this is an important part of the congregations work, we also have a individual responsibility to help. (Mat 25:35-45) This story describes our society well:

This is a story of four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that because it

was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.

We must not forget our responsibility to help those who are in need!

Another lesson we can learn is what to give. Yes, there are those out there who need food, water, clothing, or shelter. But do they also have greater needs?

(Mat 16:26)For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Give them what they physically need and take that opportunity to share God's word with them! Give them a Bible, invite them to church with you, study with them, and ask if you can pray for them! I love this idea for a blessing bag.

Linking up with these blogs: Time Warp Wife, Growing Home, Far Above Rubies, Deep Roots at Home, A Wise Woman Builds Her Home, Our Simple Farm, Women Living Well, Raising Homemakers, Pure Modesty, Raising Mighty Arrows,  Our Simple Country Life, & 365 Devotionals for Unmarried Christian Women