Thoughts on Giving to The Needy
Watch that selfie!
Sometimes I think Jesus was a visionary, like too advanced for his era. It seems like he saw people nowadays taking selfies with the homeless and recording videos of themselves building churches and schools in developing countries.
He said, “when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:3-4 NLT)
Don’t let your left thumb tap on the selfie button while your right hand reaches out to an individual. Who are you posing for? Your followers? What difference will it make in the life of the person you’re helping? None. You’re being selfish, that’s all.
There are ways to produce content highlighting the needs of the poor while teaching the viewers how to help. Now, that’d be a different story. But think twice before putting yourself in front of the camera. Watch your intentions.
When James said that “pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress (1:27 NLT),” he didn’t have Social Media followers in mind — he had the hurting people, instead.