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I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen the sign. It always seems to be there at the most inopportune time, looming unavoidably like a skyscraper in front of me: “Will Work For …
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I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen the sign. It always seems to be there at the most inopportune time, looming unavoidably like a skyscraper in front of me: “Will Work For FOOD.”
There have been times, I must confess, that my heart was divided. As I looked at the person, I would start analyzing their situation, motives and what they might have done to put themselves in this predicament. When I did this, I missed the most important part, their need.
“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40.
It was during one of these times that God spoke to my heart and said, “What if it were you?”
I tried to picture what it would be like living hand-to-mouth, no home, no security, one day dissolving into the next as the years of my life passed on aimlessly into eternity.
At that moment, I resolved to do what I could to help, without judging the motives of the one in need.
Through these chosen opportunities God allows you to be his love in action. Think about it for a moment. The king of the universe wants you to be part of his plan to bring help and hope to someone who may never know the comforts you and I enjoy every day.
This situation has the potential to read the motives of our heart.
Most of us have more than we need but, when it comes to giving the last few dollars in our wallets, we hold back, we act like we will never earn another penny again. We’re afraid that if we give, we will be the one in need. Your father in heaven knows all your needs. He blesses you so you, in turn, can bless others. Then he waits to see if your heart will respond to his plea to help the helpless.
The next time you see someone in need, ask God to enable you to see them through his eyes. When you do this, you will stop questioning why they are there and begin to see their real need.
As you lift their burdens, others will see him. You can never out-give the one who gave everything for you.
(Steve Nelson pastors the Powell and Cody Seventh-day Adventist churches.)
