So, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols. (NLT) -1 Corinthians 10:14
It's easy to think that this verse doesn't apply to us anymore, since we don't pray to false gods and we can forecast the rain. But getting to the heart of the matter, an idol is anything we put our trust in. Isn't it true that we rely less upon God when we have money in our pocket and food in our pantry? What are some ways you can alter your thinking to trust God for your needs?
So, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols. (NLT) -1 Corinthians 10:14
It's easy to think that this verse doesn't apply to us anymore, since we don't pray to false gods and we can forecast the rain. But getting to the heart of the matter, an idol is anything we put our trust in. Isn't it true that we rely less upon God when we have money in our pocket and food in our pantry? What are some ways you can alter your thinking to trust God for your needs?
O LORD, I have come to you for protection; don't let me be disgraced. (NLT) -Psalm 71:1
Do you need safety and stability in your life right now? When you feel vulnerable to harm know there is a place to go and you will be rescued. Seek out assistance from your local church and they will reach out a helping hand. Ask God for His hands of protection to surround you. Read God's word for wisdom and guidance, such as the book of Proverbs. Our Lord will provide strength and security. Look to God for protection.
He ensures that orphans and widows receive justice. He shows love to the foreigners living among you and gives them food and clothing. (NLT) -Deuteronomy 10:18
The God who created the universe is an active one that goes out of his way to show that he cares! The story of the Bible is full of ways God steps in for the lost, enslaved, broken, underdog, sinful, outcasts, and even the rich in an effort to show them that He cares. God freed the enslaved people of Egypt, he gave Solomon riches and wisdom despite the fact he was conceived through questionable circumstances, and He died on the cross for the world to save us from our self-inflicted death sentences. The lesson for us is that we are to live in a way that shows the love of God in practical ways. Give food and shelter to the needy, words of hope to the lost, encouragement to the depressed, and be people who stand up for the oppressed. The comfort is that when we fail to do these things with perfection because as people we inevitably don’t get it all right; God sees the needs of the world and he works to bring justice and provision!
If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion--how can God's love be in that person? (NLT) -1 John 3:17
This is quite a convicting verse! It's much easier to see this in other people, but much more difficult to see this in our own lives. We try to excuse ourselves by claiming that we don't live well, so we don't need to show compassion, but is this really the truth? Sacrificing that cup of coffee a few times a week could provide food, clothing, and medical care for an orphan. What financial steps can you take to share God's love for others?
