February 15, The Needy

Today’s reading: Psalm 71-75

“He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight”  - Psalm 72:13-14.

God is full of compassion for the weak and downtrodden. If God is going to help them, however, He must use you and me to do so. That means we must have the same compassion and pity, and take action on God’s behalf. You cannot expect or wait for God to use someone else, especially if you notice the plight of the needy, for that is another sign that God wants you to be involved. (It’s difficult to accept, but some cannot see it like you do and therefore will not act.) The wisdom writer taught, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God” (Proverbs 14:31). Where can you show kindness to the weak and needy? How can you get involved in justice and mercy issues in your country or another?