Compassion for the Needy

God made it clear that He wanted the Israelites to have compassion. Their highest motivation was not to be profit or personal gain, but rather, love. As an embodiment of this principle, God commanded, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (v. 18). Jesus said this was second in importance only to the command to “love the Lord your God with all our heart, soul, and mind”(Matthew 22:36-38).

The Israelites had an opportunity to demonstrate this compassion during harvest time. If they were motivated by selfishness, they would harvest every bit of their crop, without exception. But God commanded them to show concern for others…even while harvesting. They intentionally were not to reap a part of their field. Why? Because God wanted them to be concerned with those who were less fortunate—the needy and the stranger.

God was interested in creating a nation of people who cared about others and took care of everyone. He was creating a lifestyle that acknowledged needs in the community and encouraged people to help meet those needs.

These same principles are true today. Souls all around you are lost, dying in sin. Others suffer with physical, financial, and spiritual needs. God has given you resources to help meet their needs. Ask Him to give you a heart of compassion and fill you with His Spirit so you will overflow with love.

As He blesses you, be a person who generously gives—who shares from your resources to help the poor and needy, to spread the Gospel and to change lives.