people with needs

Matthew 9:36  NLT

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Today I take a some time for personal privilege and share why I am so passionate about what we get to do at The Community Fellowship.  The verse above is the example of our leader, our Savior Jesus.  He looked at people and knew their heart, their pain and their need.

A good shepherd, as John chapter 10, knows His sheep.  He sees their value and seeks to build it and protect it.  When the sheep seek to go their own way or don’t understand their value, the shepherd steps in.

It grieved Jesus when people are hurting and confused.  The same should grieve us.

1 Thessalonians 5:14  NLT

Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.

It is not that we know more.  Even if we do.  It is not that we are more talented or have more money.  We might even be poor compared to those in need.  It is our responsibility to share what God has taught us.  I take this and apply it to the characteristic of being non-judgmental to the people we encounter.

By encouraging others to get strong and to trust God we pass on the best that God has for those people.  By being patient we step back and make sure we lead with courage and not with being something of a judge.

2 Corinthians 8:14  NLT

Right now you have plenty and can help those who are in need. Later, they will have plenty and can share with you when you need it. In this way, things will be equal.

We have all messed up (see Romans 3:23 and 6:23).  Yet when our mess up allows us to bless and encourage other, we have become the people that God wants us to be.  We press others to become who God made them to be. 

It is time that we not only see and acknowledge hurting people, but we must speak up and step us to serve the people around us who are hurting.  Who are they?  Look around you.  There are people who need what we can give, who will grow in their courage and who will be challenged by God as we share Jesus with them.

People who have been hurt can go a long way to help hurting people.  May God place people in our path that we can love and encourage!