When tragic situations occur down the street or across the world, we often want to help, but are unsure how. As we live in a world that screams, 'take care of yourself, first, second, third...,' there are some situations that can arouse the most selfish and prideful. Caring of the less fortunate is in line with living as a child of God (see Matthew 25:31-46; Luke 10:25-37; and James 1:19-27 as examples), we often find ourselves without the ways or means we can provide our greatest assistance.
1. Pray.
There is never a waking moment that someone in the world is without the need of prayer. Pray without ceasing throughout the day and as often as the situation or person(s) are brought to your remembrance.
2. Connect with local organizations.
Check the local newspaper, TV news reports, or radio stations on various relief efforts already taking place. First, check to see what is available locally. In situations like this, it is easier to support organizations with ties already in the affected area than trying to make your own. However, you may discover that new 'connections' are needed.
Remember, this isn't about you...or making your name known. People are in need, so meet the need and allow God to be glorified through your good works (Matthew 5:14-16).
3. Rally others to support those in need.
Send an e-mail, make a phone call, and get on social networks such as Twitter or Facebook. Make your request known to others for you never know how God will move on a person's heart.
4. Give.
When you give to those in need, give what is in your heart. As Paul instructed the church in Corinth to complete their giving to the believers in Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8-9), he asked that their giving be without compulsion or reluctantly...love shown through cheerfulness. If $5 is all you desire to give...$5 is a great help. Don't allow the little you may have to prevent you from giving. Some people look at the small amount and believe it's not enough to make a BIG difference, so they do nothing. But think if all the people that thought the same thing gave their $5...that $5 would quickly multiply to meet many dire needs.
5. GO.
There may come a time and opportunity for you to be directly involved in relief efforts. Instead of giving a bunch of reasons why you can't go...think 'why not you!' God can you use to touch a life...and even your own.
1 John 3:16-17 (KJV) - This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?
Help...no matter how small is an important step forward.
