Today’s Reading, Proverbs 19-21
Focal Scripture: Proverbs 19:17 “Kindness to the poor is a loan to the Lord, and he will give a reward to the lender.”
I have had the privilege in my life to deal with many people who are poor and hopeless. I have had many conversations and even served them right where they are in their circumstances. I used to have the attitude that they got themselves there and could get themselves out. Thankfully, I served at a church and had men and women who showed me that serving the poor and the hurting was not only good but a ministry that changes you for the better.
In today’s reading we see that being kind to the poor is a very good thing to do because it shows our hearts. It is a loan to the lord when we give kindness especially to those who look like they are suffering because of choices that they have made. This verse tells us that when we give kindness the Lord he will reward the lender. Context tells us that God pays attention to how we treat others in destitute situations. He is looking for those to do good to people who are less fortunate.
I am not sure what your opinions are on people who are poor. However, whatever your opinion is I hope you show them kindness. The reason they are struggling could be external or internal. It could be their choices or situations outside their control. No matter what, they deserve kindness. Far too often professing believers ignore those who are hurting spiritually , economically, and emotionally. To many times people come at them with vengeance instead of love.
I once heard a believer say about a person struggling with drugs that they had no use for a druggy. They wouldn’t tolerate it or give help in their situation. The attitude was not Christlike. There was no kindness. I am not saying you have to agree or like what people choose. I am not saying that tough love isn’t warranted sometimes.
However, as believers we should love those who are poor and bring them up. We need to show mercy and compassion. We need to treat them as people struggling who are in desperate need of kindness in their life. I have witnessed people and churches who act with kindness to the poor and hurting be blessed beyond measure from God. I have watched God use them in ways that do not make sense to the world.
I am thankful that I was challenged and led by godly people and leaders to serve the poor with kindness and love. It changed my life and ministry. If you will surrender to biblical truth it will do wonders for you also. Don’t be like the believer who wrote off those who struggle, be different.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Proverbs 22-23
