Many citizens, in the United States, are very concerned about the “welfare” system because it seems to encourage dependency.  So, people who are able to better themselves tend to become more reliant on government rather than being productive with quality work.  The concern for the nation is that people are taking advantage of “handouts” rather than working for a living.  I have actually met people who truly enjoy living on-the-streets without a care in the world except where they will find their next meal.  With these people it is hard to forget the passage that Paul wrote to Christian brethren, “For even when we were with you, we would give you this command:  If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.  For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.  Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living” (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).  

Yet, there are those who are truly in need.  And God loves people who take care of those who can’t make it easily without help.  “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?  Can that faith save him?  If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?  So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:14-17; cf. Exodus 23:3, 6, 11; Leviticus 23:22; Deuteronomy 24:14; 1 Samuel 2:7; Proverbs 19:17; Luke 7:22; Galatians 2:10). 

But the reality is, people tend to feel uncomfortable around others who are not similar to them.  This can include, but not limited to, the poor – even poor Christians.  Part of the reason for this aversion to developing close relationships with the downtrodden is because people tend to forget what makes a person a focus of God.  It’s not their intelligent quotient, good looks, finances, family relations, or education; rather, it is their soul that can be saved through the saving blood of Christ.  Hmm?  I wonder why Paul had to write, “Live in harmony with one another.  Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.  Do not be conceited” (Romans 12:16).  Take a permanent stance to associate with all people – even the lowly.  Do it for the sake of Christ.                               

John A. Reeves
www.thelordshumbled.com

'And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.  Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.  Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.  Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.  Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.  Slaves, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.  Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ" (Colossians 3:17-24). 

I was paid today.  I like getting paid for the work I do.  There is a sense of accomplishment, appreciation, and value in a paycheck.  No, it doesn't make me who I am but it allows me to provide for my family and enjoy some blessings in life.

Unfortunately, there were times in my life that I felt unappreciated by my paycheck.  I felt like "I was going nowhere financially".  I felt like, "I was in a dead-end job".  I even entertained the thought that, "My wife makes more than me - I must be a looser".

Yet, in Christ, no one is a looser.  Jesus gave us eternal life!  Let's be responsible in our Christian "job" and enjoy the blessings that come from a relationship with Christ.  Yes, sometimes it is hard work.  Sometimes, you may feel like you're not "paid" enough.  Don't forget, a Christian's reward is truly in Heaven with God and Christ.  There are and will continue to be many struggles in our physical "job".  Remember to work as for Christ.

The Lord's humbled . . . John A. Reeves