For the OneSample

When you think about someone who's "poor," the first thing that comes to mind is most likely a homeless person, someone living in a third country, or someone who is bankrupt. But there are other kinds of poverty that we need to address, too. The "poor" around us could also be people lacking spiritually, mentally, or emotionally. It could be those who are lonely, depressed, or angry. King Solomon, one of the most wealthy and influential men in history, tells us in Proverbs 28:27 that "those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses." When we see people in need around us but look the other way, we are not only depriving them of help they may need, but we are also depriving ourselves of the opportunity to show genuine love for someone outside of ourselves. When we listen to the Holy Spirit's nudging and help those around us, we experience a spiritual wealth of our own, too.

Challenge: Who is someone in need around you? It could be someone who lacks money or resources or someone who has an emotional or spiritual need. Do something to fill a need they have today.

Going Deeper: Take action today by actually giving your money, time, or resources to someone in need. Donate to a non-profit, a local ministry, or even the church. Actively show God that you want to take care of those around you by giving some of what you have.