Poor Choices

Do Christians have a Spirit-led strategy to address the needs of the poor? Is there a prayer motivated method to minister to those who are without? For some yes, some no, however, some of the least are still overlooked because some smell, some are sick and some are surly. It may be unpleasant to uncover and understand the needs of those in severe poverty. But believers in Jesus are called to care for the poor in Christ’s name.Yes, there are some lowly sluggards who are lazy, but they still need the love of the Lord. We can organize acts of mercy that offer dignity, as we hold the lowly in the highest regard. Love looks for ways to eradicate poverty and not just expedience that provides temporary relief. Chronic hunger and health problems need healthy long-term solutions.

Perhaps you partner with people with a common passion to care for the poor. Be the best steward by seeking prayerful collaboration with those already embedded in the community and care for them at their point of basic survival. The need for food and water is a necessity that needs to be met by those who have met their Master Jesus. Give food, water and medical care by faith and the receiver will want to know why you’re kind.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).

Is God calling you to live among the poor and experience their plight? It may take you living in poverty to abolish poverty. Jesus did not say the poor would be with us forever. He was contrasting caring for the poor to His imminent death, so the disciples would have a sense of urgency to be with Him in the moment. Indeed, the poor can be no more when Christian compassion conforms the culture to Christ. Make unselfish choices.

So, begin to pray for the underprivileged, the uneducated, the under resourced and the unredeemed. Be careful though, how you pray, as the Lord may use you to become an answer to your own prayers. Pray for the poor to be no more. Pray for God to open the door for you and your family to serve the poor and needy. Love unconditionally those cast out by the culture and they will know you are His disciples by your loving kindness.

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).

What choices can I make today that will benefit the poor and needy tomorrow?

Related Reading: Proverbs 29:7; Mark 10:21; John 12:6; 1 Corinthians 13:3; James 2:5

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