Help the poor and needy

9-01-08

SCRIPTURE:
Ezekiel 16:49 "Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy."

OBSERVATION:
I never heard this until I was an adult. Most of my growing up years, in the church, it was emphasized that the immoral behavior of those in Sodom was all about their sexuality. I know that was part of the reason why God destroyed Sodom. But here, it's clear that Sodom was destroyed because they were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned (I'm assuming unconcerned for anyone but themselves). They did not help the poor and needy. I am realizing that if I stay in drift mode (with my life and heart) this could be me. It could be us. It could describe the church, if left unchecked.

APPLICATION:
This is why it is crucial for me (and the people of our church) to make it a habit to help the poor and needy. Not just 'help' them, but 'know' them too. That's why I look forward to going to Urban Restoration on Tuesdays.

PRAYER:
God. Forgive me for my unconcern and apathy. Wake up my heart to the needs of those around me.