The Privileged Life: A Cup of Water in Jesus’ Name

“For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.” Mark 9:41 (NKJV)

As world events unfold in the news, it’s easy to recoil in dismay…to be fearful and depressed…to wring our hands when there is nothing we can do…or so we think.

If we truly love others, the way Jesus Christ loves them, we react with compassion to the suffering of individuals, whether they are enduring the pain of natural disasters like the earthquake in Haiti or tormented by manmade catastrophes like the situation in Afghanistan. Our sorrow for another’s distress is coupled with a strong desire to alleviate it.

But how do we act on our longing to help? When we’re thousands of miles away? When so much confusion reigns? When things look hopeless?

As Christians, we have actionable options—pray, give, and go.

Pray for God’s mercy and power to be revealed.

Lift up your voice, heart, and hands to the sovereign God who is holy, powerful, merciful, just. We cannot understand why He has allowed these horrific situations to occur and continue. We do not know His plans. But we know He is faithful. What Satan has intended for evil, our Lord God will use for good. Call on the name of Jesus Christ—ask Him to intervene, to act on His great love and mercy in hopeless situations. Pray for God’s will to be done for those in dire need, for their rescue and relief, for protection from their enemies. Pray for those in harm’s way and those who are going into harm’s way to aid them. Our God is powerful to redeem.

Give generously.

Look for Christian organizations involved in relief efforts, those with a solid, reputable track record. Samaritan’s Purse is absolutely one of the best.

For more than four decades, this dynamic organization has met disasters head-on, worldwide—earthquakes, famine, floods, thirst, hurricanes, wars, disease, human trafficking, economic despair. And millions of people have linked arms with Samaritan’s Purse to help through financial contributions and volunteerism.

As Samaritan’s Purse teams respond with compassionate care and provisions, they bring more—words of hope. They share the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. With every food basket, cup of pure water, blue tarp nailed to a roofline, or life-saving surgery, Samaritan’s Purse volunteers deliver the same message: Jesus Christ is our ultimate hope and source of strength for the future.

To donate, go to https://www.samaritanspurse.org and click on the “Give” tab.

Go, if you can.

We’re not all equipped to go overseas. Inadequate finances, skills, or circumstances prevent most of us from acting on our wishes. But if you’re a carpenter, house cleaner, chef, engineer, physician, or farmer—someone with a specific skill or talent—consider volunteering for a few days, a week, or even months in a disaster zone. And you don’t have to go far. You know of needs in your own community or neighborhood. When you hear the call, act without delay.

Do all in the name of Jesus Christ, for His glory.

On the battlefield of human misery, you can make a difference as a soldier for Christ. Decide to pray, give, and/or go, but do everything in humility, in Jesus’ name. Let your mission be for His glory, not your own.

No more wringing your hands—instead, lift them up in prayer, use them to open your wallet, or reach them out to bless others around you. Jesus is calling you…and me…to be His hands here.

Lord Jesus, how our hearts ache when we hear of pain and suffering in the news. Please, Lord, we call upon You to intervene in these unthinkable situations where we cannot go. Let Your power, glory, and purposes be revealed. Send Your angels to rescue Your people. Open our hearts, homes, gifts, abilities, and desires to be Your soldiers in the battles of life against Satanic forces. Be our Guide, Strong Tower, Captain, and Victor. In Your holy name, Amen.

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