Giving to the Poor

Psalm 41:1-13 Our church has always given to some ministry that feeds the poor, and often members of our church will go down to the inner city and serve meals to the poor. We also have orphanages in India and Mexico that house many children who otherwise would be living in poverty on the streets. I believe the fact we have always been faithful in giving to the poor is the reason we have never experienced any financial crisis of consequence.

There is a proverb that says, “When you give to the poor, you are lending to God.” When you lend to God, He does not have to pay any interest, but instead He pays great dividends. The dividends acquired when we lend to God by giving to the poor are without measure. I can remember seeing a little Indian preacher jump up and down for joy when he received his first pair of shoes. He was forty years old and never wore shoes. At Christmas time I always had a party at my home in honor of a dear friend who had a ministry with the poor. Those invited were to bring an offering to her so she could distribute gifts and clothing to the poor at Christmas. I couldn’t wait till everyone finally left the house so my friend and I could total up the offering. We were always so blessed to see the giving spirit of all those invited.

You also will receive a blessing when you give to the poor in spirit. Whenever we impart a drink of spiritual water and a portion of God’s Word to thirsty and hungry souls, we will experience great blessing. Remember, Jesus came to preach the gospel to the poor.

Lord, help me to look for ways I can lend to You by giving to the poor. There are so many needy people whom You want to bless financially and spiritually. I want to be a co-laborer with You in the ministry to the poor.

READ: Leviticus 16:29-18:30; Mark 7:24-8:9; Psalm 41:1-13; Proverbs 10:15-16