Scripture Thursday ~ Help Where You're Able

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Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
When it is in the power of your hand to do so.
Proverbs 3:27
We were finally able to have a conversation with my sister in law and family who live in New Jersey among the devastation of Hurricane Sandy.  For days we could only communicate through simple texting.

The aftermath of this storm has left families without their homes, vehicles, belongings and some -  their most precious possessions - loved ones and friends.  The stories she described seemed incomprehensible. 

After eight days they reached a safe haven where they were able to shower, and have a hot meal.  They are preparing for the long ordeal of putting their lives back together, although it will never be the same again.  This is just one story of thousands along the Mid Atlantic Coast. 
This has given me a different outlook on what I HAVE vs. what I NEED and will be looking for ways to share my resources. 
One such organization which gives like the verse below describes, is Samaritan’s Purse under the direction of Franklin Graham.  They are in New Jersey and New York with countless volunteers helping where they can. 
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give,
not reluctantly or under compulsion,
for God loves a cheerful giver. 
2 Corinthians 9:7




In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive. 
Acts 20:35
Look around your own neighborhood, circle of friends and family, church family… who needs help? 

Who could use a meal

a bag of groceries

a gas card

prayer 

a note of encouragement

clothes

a telephone call

a visit

He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD,
    and he will reward him for what he has done.
Proverbs 19:17

Let's try to reach out, be merciful, and give,  expecting nothing in return. 
Even if it seems out of our comfort zone.

One man gives freely, yet gains even more;
    another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
Proverbs 11:24


Generosity is impossible apart from our love of God and of His people.
But with such love, generosity not only is possible but inevitable.
~ John MacArthur ~

For those who have the Lord, there is always hope.  We cling to His promises and are reminded by recent events that this world is not our home, and we are just passing through.  Someday we will be in a place where we will never hurt, suffer, in any way again for all eternity.

I press on toward the goal to win the prize
for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14
If you would like to help the hurricane victims, you can visit Samaritan's Purse here: 
Samaritan's Purse US Disaster Relief
or email me littlebirdieblessings@gmail.com
for some more information on ways you could help. 
Thank you!