Caring For Those In Need

Ministry Conference Call Devotion:

Caring for those in Need

We are all aware of Hurricane Harvey and the homelessness that it has caused in Houston and South Texas. I believe that this time last week many had no idea that they would be homeless today. Those with money, living in nice homes, and driving expensive cars have now found themselves homeless and standing along side of those who have made their homes under a bridge. All are homeless and living in homeless shelters with one another. They are both sleeping on cots and possess only the clothes they are currently wearing. They both have found themselves in the same food line and going through the same used clothes and all are in back of a dump truck so that the water will not over take the vehicle. Some of the rich may have even noticed some that they have passed up on the street corner. But today, both are on the same level and in the same situation.

At this time, I want to remind us what God says about caring for those in need.

James 2:15-16 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food and one of you say unto them depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body, what doth It profit (what good is it?)

1 John 3:17-18 But whose hath this world’s goods and seeth his brother have need and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children let us not love in word neither in tongue but in deed and truth.

Remember, the early church was motivated by their love for Christ and the Grace of God that had been shown to them. They lived an open-handed lifestyle sharing all they had with one another, so no man lacked - Acts 2:44-45.

We see then the need in Houston and realize that it could have been us or one day in the future it may be us in the same situation.

We talk about Reaching In and Reaching Out, serving others even in our own community; perhaps, we can volunteer for an after school program, develop a soup kitchen, create a clothes closet. Let us Ask God to give us eyes to see and a heart to serve.

I thank God for all of our I-LIFE Ministries and all that you are doing, It may go unnoticed by many but God sees and He will reward you openly. He will not forget your labor of Love Hebrews 6:10.

As Christians we are to minister to those who are suffering while we are here.

Let me close with one more scripture:

2 Corinthians 9:10-11, Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food and multiply your seed sown and increased the fruits of your righteousness being enriched in everything to all bountifulness which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.