GIVING IN TIMES OF NEED

During these last few days of devastation and destruction due to the hurricane Matthew we have received many reports of great loss and need. This raises the issue of helping those in need. For those who live on the east coast of the United States we are also facing impending difficulties as well that could easily keep our minds and interest occupied on our own interests. As I have viewed television and social media I have seen some help that may be moving in the direction of the affected areas with basic relief. I have also heard some talking about the abject poverty, the helplessness and hopelessness of the many in these hard hit areas.

I have been in these places, walked among these people, worked and ministered among them. I have sat where they sit. So what sort of responsibility do I as a Christian believer have toward especially the poor believers in these places?

I was reading just today in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9. These are very timely and interesting chapters that I believe hold the clues to how we must respond to the needs of poor believers. These two chapters give us a guide for caring for those in need. It is speaking about the work of Paul and his missionary companions as they travel to collect an offering to assist the poor saints in Jerusalem. I know it is another time and other places but I think the inspired testimony must still be considered.

Perhaps in another place I will expand on the entire text, but for brevity and to come to the point for this post I will consider just some brief points.

First, the apostle had no embarrassment asking for others, even those who were suffering hardships to participate in this offering and therefore he encourages their purposeful giving. 2 Corinthians 8:1-5; 11-12; 9:7

Second, Paul was convinced that God would bless those who gave so that they could give and so that they would not lack personally because they were giving. 2 Corinthians 9:8-11

Third, God uses us to give to the poor and promises that His reserves will never be exhausted but that the poor, receiving our gifts will be giving thanks to God for us and in turn pray for us. They pray for help, God uses us, they thank God for us and pray for us. A great cycle of spiritual fellowship is one of the the results of our giving. 2 Corinthians 9:11-15

Fourth, The greater your gift, the greater the blessing from your giving and the greater increase of the fruits of your righteousness. 2 Corinthians 9:6; 10

Fifth, As you give it is your open confession of your obedience to the gospel of Christ. It is proof that the gospel has a firm grip on your life. 2 Corinthians 9:13