How do I best help the poor?

Scripture

Luke 10:33-35

“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. 35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, [*] telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’

Observation

The Samaritan was a good neighbor because he displayed compassion and mercy.  Also noticed he had the tools to help:

1. Olive oil, wine, and bandages.

2. A donkey to carry him on.

3. Money to pay the inn keeper.

It took more than a good heart, he had the sustenance to help.  It takes more than good intentions, to truly help, you need practical tools.

Application

1. Keep a heart that is sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit and senstive to the needs of others. 

2.  Be a good steward of my resources so I am in a position to help others.

3. Be generous. I cannot out give God. He will get it to me if he can get it through me.

4.  Offer the poor practical tools not just a hand out.  Teach them to fish, have a vision of transforming generations.

Prayer

Father do not allow me to become cynical and hard hearted.  May my heart be generous and sensitive to the needs of others.  Enable me to steward my resources well.  Give me wisdom to know how to best help others.  Transform generations.