Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Caring for the Poor
“A
by Dr. Ralph Jenkins
nd if you give yourself to the hungry and
If you would take some time and read Isaiah 58, you
satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then your
would see a host of promises made to those who care for
light will rise in darkness and your gloom
the poor and sick. God promises to turn our night into day
will become like midday. And the LORD will continually
and gloom into the light of midday. God promises that
guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and
when we call on Him, He will hear us. When we cry, He will
give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered
say, “Here I am.” He will continually guide us, satisfy our
garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail”
desires, and give strength to our bones. If that is not enough,
(Isaiah 58: 10-11).
He will also repair, restore, and raise up all that is broken.
I received a note today from a pastor and dear friend in India. Over the last year, all of our pastors, their families, churches, and our children’s home in India has either had or have Covid-19. They are the poorest of the poor and during this season they cannot provide the food and medicine need for all. We have had the privilege, because of those who give to this ministry, to provide food and medicine for many of the Telegu People. It has been a tough year, to say the least, for so many—Covid-19, the economy, and schools and churches closed. We have had our social circles collapse around us. It has brought about discouragement and despair for many of us. I have found that nothing increases my faith, joy, peace,
If you really want to be blessed and have your joy, peace, love, and hope restored—just step out in faith and
and hope more than reaching out to those less fortunate
do it God’s way. Get up, get out, and go find someone you
to help provide for their needs. I am always amazed at the
can help in their time of need. He promised to bless us if
personal satisfaction that comes with giving and caring for
we would.
the poor of this world. In fact, I would say that I may get
God condemns His people in Isaiah 58 for their religious
more out of it than they do. It encourages and compels me
ritual. Our commitment to worship, prayer, and Bible study
to be a better me.
is hugely important. Blessings, encouragement, joy, peace,
Yet, for the Believer there are even greater blessings. The Word of God is filled with promises of blessing when we
restoration and, yes, even revival are found in serving others. Now, go and be a blessing to someone.
our good work. He promises blessing to those who are good to the poor.
6 // August 2021
About The Author
care for the poor. We honor God and He promises to repay Dr. Ralph W. Jenkins is a native of Rome, Georgia. He and His wife Tammy have served the Lord in ministry for over 25 years and has pastored several churches. He loves to win souls, preach the gospel, shepherd God’s people, and work on the farm.
