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Poverty Is Personal By Phyllis Newton Poverty has been a constant presence throughout human history, but each of us has the opportunity to personally combat poverty every day while we look forward to a time when poverty will be a distant memory. overty hits us in the face from many angles. The media bombards us with pictures of the world's poor; we can also see it in our day-to-day lives. Pleas for help are constant. Our hearts go out to them. Poverty is a forest of sorrow. We see this forest and get discouraged. However, caring for individual trees one at a time is possible. The poverty solution is an individual matter.
What can each of us do to fight poverty? God will put before you opportunities to help. Do not let them pass by. Watch, be aware of your neighborhood, and be available. Keep in mind the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37). God put before him someone in need of medical help and care, and the Samaritan provided that need according to his means. You also can provide for another's physical needs when you see his or her poverty. Make yourself aware of the background of the situation so you can help compassionately in ways that preserve dignity.
It was common then to bring the poor into homes by doubling up families. In this economy there are still needs for sharing homes with relatives, temporarily or even permanently. With the proper attitude, this can be a win-win situation. It is a tangible presence that is supportive. Do we cover the naked? Giving clothing to organizations like Good Will are ways to help clothe the naked. Jesus said that whatever you do for the least, you do for Him (Matthew 25:40). The greatest tool to fight poverty is love
We can only give what we have at hand. Peter told the beggar at the temple in Acts 3:6, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." And the beggar did. We cannot give such a great gift, but we can always pray for the needy, and spread the gospel of hope. Hope is the first step in helping the poor to rise above their state in life. A time when poverty will cease When Jesus Christ returns to earth, peoples' minds will be changed, and we will have all the right answers to combat poverty.
In the meantime, wisely share your blessings:
"But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased" (Hebrews 13:16). For additional ideas on managing money and reaching out to those in need, please request our free booklets and . Copyright 2006 by United Church of God, an International Association All rights reserved. |
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Origin of article "Poverty Is Personal"
Keywords: poverty poor helping love of neighbor
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