Purposeful Gratitude: The Heart of OutreachSýnishorn
Day 2: Feed the Hungry
When was the last time you missed a meal? Maybe you got busy and just forgot, or you didn’t plan well and ended up going without. Hunger can overpower your thoughts in an increasingly persistent way, demanding your attention.
When was the last time you felt hungry for God? Maybe you’ve known His nearness, but life got busy, and you began to feel distant from Him. Once you’ve known the satisfaction of the presence of God, the distance becomes more apparent.
We were created to be fed consistently. In the same way that eating one meal won’t last long, spending time with God occasionally won’t either. Our bodies and souls need consistent nourishment. God desires a constant connection with us, and He made us to want that, too.
For someone who doesn’t know Christ, spiritual hunger is normal. They haven’t known the fullness of a relationship with God. For someone in great need, physical hunger can be normal, too. But people shouldn’t have to live in regular desperation.
God calls us to meet the needs of both. Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus modeling this. He gives people his attention, and compassion moves Him to act. He offers forgiveness, healing, and meals — feeding weary people wherever He goes.
Where have you seen physical hunger in your community? Who do you know who is spiritually hungry? Don’t make it complicated. Reach out. Invite someone to church. Make someone a meal. Follow the example of Jesus and help feed His people.
About this Plan
Most of us know outreach is important, but life is busy, and it’s hard to even know where to start. It doesn’t have to be complicated. This devotional will help you reconnect to God’s heart for His people. When we take time to reflect on all God has done for us, we begin to see others like He does, and compassion is a natural response.
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