Serve Where You Are

She extends her hand to the poor, yes; she reaches out her hands to the needy. ~ Proverbs 31:20 NKJV

Isn’t it interesting that there is a distinction made in Proverbs 31:20 between the poor and the needy? Our general understanding would lead us to believe that they are one in the same. In truth, these are two distinct categories of service. A needy person is not always poor; they are lacking something they need whether tangible or in the form of support.

In 2013, the Proverbs 31 woman is most likely given to view her service as a function of church duty and it is great. After all, there are many needs to be served in a church building. However, the truth is service opportunities live next door and across the street; in the next cubicle or two seats over in the board room. More truth: Our service is a part of our lifestyle as followers of Jesus. 

Some of the most beautiful testimonies of service are born of opportunities right where we are, whether at home or work or at school or even sitting in a pew. There is a woman who needs a job and an elderly woman across the street that cannot always wait for visiting relatives to help her with household chores or to take her to the grocery store. Maybe that woman who has been coming to work later and later simply needs a resource that you have to help her with childcare or caring for an ailing parent. 

Sisters, keep your hands open and your heart prepared to serve right where you are. God is always glorified in a lifestyle that includes that kind of quiet giving. 

God Bless,
Wynter