Jonathan Moore
Deuteronomy 15:10-11
Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do. There will always be some in the land who are poor. That is why I am commanding you to share freely with the poor and with other Israelites in need.
Proverbs 25:21-22
If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the Lord will reward you.
Our giving should be motivated by compassion and conviction rather than by convenience or even conscience. Sadly, I find myself in a battle with myself over who to help, when to help and how best to help, while attempting to restrain my tendency to be judgemental. It's a daily struggle. Maybe it's because of the false assumption that what is mine is mine, rather than what I have is His. Therefore I have to shift from being a philanthropist to being a steward - a steward of the grace of God. May we all be generous not grudging!
Prayer from First Presbyterian Church Grenada Heavenly Father, we know that wind, water, rain , sleet and snow àre yours. This Sabbath we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your protection and grace.
We pray you will place Your mighty hand over this storm and calm its force. Shield us from the fury of the wind, rain, snow and ice. Care for those in the grip of the storm and keep them from harm. We pray for the safety of every person, home, and community at risk. We lift up all rescue workers, police, firefighters, and utility crews, asking for clear minds, steady hands, and safe passage as they heroically assist others in dangerous situations. Calm the anxious thoughts and steady the restless hearts of those filled with fear. Remind them of Your constant presence, that even when life seems dark and stormy, You are with us, guiding us to safety. In the wake of the storm, we pray for swift recovery and restoration. Provide essentials like water, food, and adequate shelter, and inspire communities to come together in support and care for one another.
We trust in Your unfailing love and mercy, knowing You are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. We pray in Jesus Name. Amen
🌾 A Short Parable: The Weaver’s Loom
A man watched a weaver working on a loom. From the underside, all he could see were knots, tangles, and threads that made no sense. It looked messy — even wrong.
But when the weaver turned the fabric over, the man saw a beautiful pattern he never could have imagined.
What looked like chaos from below was a masterpiece from above.
So it is with God.