Thursday, December 27

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2018


"The LORD watches over the alien
and sustains the fatherless and the widow,
but he frustrates the ways of the wicked." (Psalm 146:9)


The Scriptures consistently proclaim God's concern for those whom society might otherwise cast aside. We understand that God Himself takes interest in the "alien," the "fatherless," and the "widow." While these individuals might not command great riches or power, God desires that they flourish and receive an ample portion of the land's produce.

Both the Old and New Testaments point to giving attitudes towards every person. In Deuteronomy 15:11, God instructed through Moses: "There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land." And in 24:14: "Do not take advantage of a hired worker who is poor and needy, whether that worker is a fellow Israelite or a foreigner residing in one of your towns." Many times, the Psalms declare God's ongoing provision for the needy -- or contain their heartfelt cries.

In Acts 4:32-35, Luke describes the early Church's shared ministry and community life: "All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need."

While this collective attitude brought unity and provision for the needy, the early Church community didn't diminish or extinguish individual commitments or responsibility. As a side note, this godly concern for others and the charity that flows from that differs notably from enforced collectivism. Christian community flourishes due to love-prompted giving.

What needs do you see? How is God calling you to meet them? What resources could bring healing or freedom for 2019?


Lord God, thank You for your ongoing concern for the poor and needy. Help us to stand in the gap for the alien, the fatherless, and the widow. Provide opportunities for practical giving. Expand our compassion over the next year. Prepare us so that we may readily and abundantly glorify You in this area of our lives in 2019. In Jesus's Name, amen.


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