Day 10 – Oct. 10

“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” -1 John 3:17

It is very easy, and often said, to think that those in poverty are lazy.  People in poverty have squandered opportunities provided to them, etc. etc.  There may be some truths in some of those observations.  However, when God calls his people to help those living in poverty, does he first ask us to assess or judge their situation?  The truth is that there are a multitude of reasons as to why some live in poverty.  

There are, of course, those that are impoverished due to their own bad choices, addiction, or criminal history.  But, there are countless living in situations caused by generational poverty, lack of opportunities or resources for job training, financial literacy to better manage their household budgets, illness (both physical and mental) with a lack of insurance, and of course, children trapped in poverty through birth, and nothing of their own making.

Heavenly Father we thank you for providing for our needs and in many cases blessing us far beyond our needs.  Father, we ask that you help us to be good stewards of these blessings, give us a spirit of caring and generosity, and help us to lift the impoverished out of poverty, hunger, and economic oppression through the sharing of our time and treasures.  Father, show us the immediate needs we can meet that open hearts to show your love and the hope that you provide through your Son, Jesus Christ to those in greatest need.