A Daily Devotion for Monday, August 23

1 John 3:17

If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?

This verse provokes me. I feel so many things when I see others in need. I work with individuals every day with varying levels and types of needs. But that is my job, my profession. I am only able to give them what is appropriate in that setting. But there are other settings in which I come across people in need, and literally do not know how to help. For example, the man standing by the road with a sign saying he is homeless, has children, etc. Or the sign says, “will work for food”. It often feels unsafe or foolhardy to give money, let alone take someone in who we do not know. We have become afraid of each other, not without reason. Giving is not as simple as it should be.

Holy One, I need help with this. Help me to see ways to be generous which truly benefit the receiver. I am a cautious person, maybe too cautious sometimes. I need guidance to know when and where I can be helpful. There is a way, with you. Amen

Becky, transforming