Monday; October 7

Typically, we do a good job of teaching religious people of the need to help out those in need.  We teach Bible stories like the Parable of the Good Samaritan and quote scriptures such as, “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” (James 1:27).   No, we aren’t all where we should be, but when it comes to taking care of people in need, we do a pretty good job. 
Now, having said that, I would like to take a look at the other side of this issue.  You see, we have done a good job about teaching people about helping others, but have we failed to talk to people who need help?  The other day I was asked to return a call to someone looking for assistance.  I told them that I could not immediately give them what they wanted and was in the process of suggesting a meeting with them to visit about their situation when they immediately hung up on me.  Add this to the number of times people have promised to pay us back or come to church when we gave them what they wanted (then didn’t follow through on their promise) and it is easy to see why people grow wearying of doing good.  No, repayment or church attendance isn’t the reason we help the poor, but when we are consistently exposed to false promises, the joy of helping others wanes.
The point to this observation is that if we find ourselves in a situation where we need help, let’s be considerate and honest.  We are the ones making the request, so we shouldn’t be upset if someone else doesn’t act on our request.  If we do receive something, let’s limit our promises to the ones we are committed to keeping.  Remember, the possibility of others helping someone who comes after us may be directly associated with the way we accept rejection or assistance. 
       Think About It!

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