October 10 – Matthew 5-7

Below are my thoughts from the daily Bible reading of the West Side Church of Christ. Today’s reading comes from Matthew 5-7. Before reading I invite you to pray and asked God to speak to you as you read his word. Also above in the tabs is a link to the Bible reading plan.

Photo Credit: Microsoft Clip Art

It’s interesting how God works sometimes. In the last week I have had several interactions with people in need. One Sunday night we had a man who as hitch hiking back to New York state stop by the church. The following Thursday night I was in Cleveland attending a Browns football game. On my way into the stadium I passed by several people who I assume are homeless or in desperate need of work and help. This passed Tuesday I visited a member in our church in the hospital in Cincinnati. When I got off the interstate I sat at a light next to a man who was holding a sign and in need.

I share all that to say that I did not help any of the people I encountered in any real significant way. Several of them I walked and drove right by. But when I read the teachings of Jesus I am convicted at how much I fail in this particular area. Jesus talks here in Matthew 6:1-4 about giving in such a way as to not boast. I get that, and try to live by that. But the true heart here is that Jesus has an expectation that we are going to give to the needy.

Now I have no problem with giving to those in need. I really do not. I do believe that we have a responsibility to help people get back on their feet; I love to help those who truly need help. But I also want to be a good steward of what God has blessed me with. I want to see the resources I have be used to truly help someone. Maybe that should not be my concern. I do not know the answer. All I know is it is an area that I am convicted of right now and an area that I am seeking more guidance from God in. Where are you growing right now?