February 4                                    Exod 8 - 10

DISGUISED BLESSINGS

MEMORISE: ‘Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.’ (Prov 21:13)
READ: Psalm 41:1-3

God works in several ways that are still alien to us. For instance, when God asked us to assist the poor, people often fear they will become impoverished. They would rather keep their substance for themselves.
The passage in today’s reading reveals a simple secret to us. When you set out to bless the poor and needy, you are actually following a hidden path to greatness and abundance.

Each good deed shown from your heart to the needy is held in store for you, waiting for your day of need. On that day, it will speak in your favour and your need will be taken care of.

In the parable of the sheep and the goats, which speaks about the judgement of the nations (Matt 25:31-46), our Lord Jesus Christ revealed that some people who had asked to see him actually saw him, but did not recognize him, and therefore treated him badly – all because he came as a needy one.

Jesus further categorized certain characteristics of the poor: they are thirsty for the Word of God; they are hungry and cannot make ends meet; they are naked, sick and imprisoned; they need your attention. God promises seven blessings listed in our reading to the one who will satisfy the needs of the poor: deliverance in times of trouble, protection, sustained alive, openly identified as a blessed person; deliverance from all enemies; support in sickness or sorrow and recovery in weakness.

If you desire such blessings, why not invest in the physically and spiritually poor around you today? You can access these favours through helping the needy. Start today! Don’t look too far. They are very near you.

ACTION POINT
Ask God’s help to recognize all hidden avenues for blessings
And help you to respond the way he wants you to.