Poverty on Turning Mountains into Molehills

“For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”

1 Corinthians 3:9 NIV

Droughts, famines, earthquakes, terrorism, poverty, and war! Words like these arouse dread as we ponder these worldly problems. And, the nightly news brings images of disasters and devastation into our homes. The troubles of this world appear overwhelming at times. Sometimes, I feel lost at the enormity of each situation. How can I make a difference? Can I stop any of these from happening? I often want to give up in frustration since I cannot make the world better. It is easier to do nothing since I cannot fix it all.

World Problems

The world’s problems, like poverty, appear enormous, so we must learn to focus on the enormity of our God. God can use each one of us to help. And, over time, all of us working together in the name of Jesus will change the world for the better. An old African saying illustrates this very well, “Little and little, fills the measure.” It all starts with each of us helping a little bit at a time. Additionally, Mother Teresa said it well, “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.”

Lenten Lesson – Poverty. The world’s problems appear enormous, so we must learn to focus on the enormity of our God. Click To Tweet

The good news is that God does not call us to change the world alone. Instead, He calls us to join Him in the battle to change the world. In 1 Corinthians 3:9, we learn that we are co-workers with Christ. So our work begins when we look at the things that are important to God. In today’s message, I want to look at poverty in our world.

The Problem of Poverty

Almost half the world — over 3 billion people — live on less than $2.50 a day.

Do you know what absolute poverty looks like in our world today? United Nations describes poverty in these terms: “Fundamentally, poverty is the inability of having choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity. It means a lack of basic capacity to participate effectively in society. And, It means not having enough to feed and clothe a family, not having a school or clinic to go to, not having the land to grow one’s food or a job to earn one’s living, not having access to credit. Additionally, It means insecurity, powerlessness, and exclusion of individuals, households, and communities. And, it means susceptibility to violence, and it often implies living in marginal or fragile environments, without access to clean water or sanitation.” Poverty exists in every country of the world, but many do not see it even when it is in plain sight.

Poverty in the Bible

The Bible mentions poverty over 300 times throughout the Old and New Testaments. And, something noted that often means that the poor are near and dear to our Savior’s heart. James 2:5 (NIV) shows us, “Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?” Also, when I spend time among the poor, I am amazed at how rich they are in their faith. Unfortunately, our possessions sometimes get in the way of our faith, or at least it blinds us to seeing poverty as God sees it.

Help Others this Lent

Those in poverty are close to God’s heart in the Bible. Jesus was born into poverty and gave up his heavenly riches when he came down to earth. Also, the Bible tells us that the poor are “blessed” and teaches us to value integrity over riches. God has not forgotten the poor and instead calls all believers to join in his restorative work to bring hope and opportunity to them.

We Can Make a Difference

What are we doing to help end poverty? The message of the Bible is clear on this subject. We are all called to help the poor. Luke 3:11 (NIV) states, “And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” Matthew 5:42 (NIV) implores us, “Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.” And, Lent is a great time to look at ways to help others especially those living in poverty. Give. Help. Donate. Share. Do something to help those in need locally or halfway around the world. God is calling all of us to make a difference today.

Lenten Lesson – Poverty. The message of the Bible is clear on this subject. We are all called to help the poor. Click To Tweet

Luke 10:2 (NIV) says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” Therefore, God needs us to join Him as He helps those in need worldwide.

Prayer

Great King, help us cultivate the compassionate heart and attitude you require toward children and families in need. Remind us to regularly share our bounty with people who have much less. Lead us in the ways to help others in their time of need. Lord Jesus, help us follow you to the edges of society, where people are lonely, suffering, and in great need. Let us give freely with an appreciation for all you’ve provided to us at no charge.

Do you need prayer? I would love to pray for you. Submit your prayer request on my website at https://yvonne-morgan.com/submit-your-prayer-request-here/