Considering the Poor

Ps 41:1 Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.

Here, to 'consider the poor' means to understand their plight and to act on their behalf.

I suppose poverty is relative. Having travelled extensively in third world nations, I can tell you that poverty in America is different than poverty abroad. Here, poverty can mean doing without many of the 'luxuries' that others enjoy. i.e. a car, cable TV, a computer. However, it can mean meals are missed, utility bills are unpaid and service is interrupted, new clothing is out of the question. Some may have to sleep on the floor. In extreme cases, families may find themselves homeless.

In poverty stricken nations, poverty includes zero health care, unsanitary living conditions, famine, no food, distended stomachs, no protection from the elements or those wishing to harm the poor and needy.

Though poverty is relative in regard to location, it is still prevalent in every society.

God has given us the opportunity to consider the poor around us. We go to school with them, we work with them, attend the same church, drive by them on our way to WalMart.

When we understand their plight and do something about it, the Lord takes notice and delivers us in our time of trouble.

Paul tells us, in Gal 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Let's not be blind to the opportunities God gives to us to help the poor around us, spiritually and otherwise.