Thursday, December 15, 2011
God's Provision
I was writing a sermon today and struggling with the idea of God's provision. You see, Matthew 6 tells us not to worry about food and clothing, that God knows what we need. He will provide for all those needs as we seek after Him.
But what about my Christian brothers and sisters in third world countries? Or for that matter, my brothers and sisters in America who go to bed hungry at night?
Why isn't God providing for their very real needs?
Then it hit me...He has. No, He's not dropping manna from heaven or miraculously filling jars of olive oil (well, not that I know of). But I'm blessed. And I'm meant to be a blessing to others. I won't change the world with what I can give, but I can change a life, or two, or three.
You see, we are the hands and feet of Christ. If this hand is holding money that can help someone, hasn't God provided for them? It's up to His children who are blessed to make sure that His provision reaches those in need.
To that end, I need my friends to help me help others. If you know of a great organization to which I can give in order to directly help some people, whether overseas or at home, post it here. I don't want 50 cents of my dollar tied up in bureaucracy, so I'm looking for responsible organizations. Feel free to post as many as you are personally familiar with and this can be a resource for others who may be seeking the same information.
Consider this my obligatory, anti-consumerism, holiday post. No, I don't want you to feel guilty for buying presents for your family and friends (I am), Yes, I want you to consider how you can help others' very real needs (I am).
Merry Christmas!
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2 comments:
Check out a program called Urban Impact. I think they have a similiar vision to Element. PLUS ex-Steeler Jeff Hartings is involved.
Consider the Element Church benevolence fund. We don't as a church advertise this fund often, in order to protect it from abuse, but we often are approached with very real needs in our community. Each need is presented before our church board before any action is considered. Appropriate action to help is then taken. You can give here: http://www.theelementchurch.com/#/online-giving
Another great option is to give to the Network of Hope. NOH has been active in many of the communities around Pittsburgh, including Millvale, in helping to bring lasting positive change to Pittsburgh neighborhoods. You can give to them here: http://networkofhope.org/
One last great option is to give to the North Hills Community Outreach. They are based in Millvale & in Allison Park, and are very active in serving the less fortunate in our neighborhoods. You can find out more about them, and give to them directly here: http://www.nhco.org/
Hope this helps anyone who reads!
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