Rich or Poor, which are one are you?

do you look down on others…

'It is better to be godly and have little than to be evil and rich. For the strength of the wicked will be shattered, but the Lord takes care of the godly. ' Psalms 37:16-17

the images above may seem a far departure from where you are in life - rich or poor. what it illustrates is the indifference we have for another person. how do you treat someone who is not so fortunate, begging, or possibly just needing a helping hand?

in some ways i’ve been jaded - seeing people with signs on the streets asking for help. some of which i felt were just “faking” it and didn’t deserve anything, others i knew were in desperate need, and for some i just didn’t have the time or ignored for one reason or another. it is all the stories you hear and even news’ episodes that show people who make a living off of panhandling, yet they have homes, cars, means, etc.; they dress and act the part, so you really don’t know.

while we did discuss this in our life group, there was consensus on those we helped and didn’t. none of which was arbitrary. those who we happen to come upon, were not aggressive, demanding, offensive, we helped out; others who were we walked away. instead of giving money, we choose to get them food and drinks (no alcohol) and bring it back to them.

from time to time, in the incidents that i chose not to help, i did feel bad; while the other times that i brushed it off, i didn’t because of what they wanted and how i was approached. perhaps this is judgmental and who am i to keep this position. this is where i wonder if i am the one doing “evil” instead of being godly.

even now, when i think about my mom, she donated when we had so little. she embodied what being godly is and never thought twice of sharing and giving. it was never forced and was a habit she kept up until she passed away. that is why i still choose to help even though i don’t have much now. some people feel, and have said to me, it is ‘foolish’, stupid, and naive, and that i should think more of myself and my family. because i learned it from someone i loved deeply and know it gave her much joy and satisfaction, i refuse to listen and know God continues to provide.

dear Heavenly Father, may my life and family’s be rich from your love, joy, and peace. these and whatever resources you give us, teach us to share it generously with those you’ve placed in our lives. help me to not get caught up in this world and seek its ‘riches’ - all of which i know can be taken away in a moment as you’ve taught me long ago. keep our eyes fixed on you Lord Jesus. in your Holy and Precious name i pray, amen!