Dear Friends,
Lately, I have thought a lot about God’s provision for me and felt greatly awed at how well God has taken care of me. This week I have continued to meditate on kindness and have been reading Proverbs 19:17 (NIV), “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” I wouldn’t want to claim that I am a good person. I tend toward selfishness and self-centeredness. I have often failed badly at forgiveness. There is a great deal I have gotten wrong, and I have many regrets. And yet, as I have been praying about what to write to you this week, I feel compelled to say that I can testify to the truth of these words of scripture. Over the years, one small thing Jamie and I have gotten right has been prioritizing caring for people in need in one way or another. As we have focused on the needs of the poor rather than saving up for ourselves, God has provided everything that we need and so much more. The details of these things are different for all of us. Not everyone is meant to sell everything like the rich young man in Luke 18. But one thing I can say to you with confidence is that you don’t need to be afraid. God is faithful to keep his promises.
“Do not be afraid little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that do not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys” (Luke 12:32-33 NIV).
Love in Christ,
Michelle