Strangers...Give to those right in front of you!
Updated: Jan 17, 2019
The hardest thing sometimes to do, for some people... is give to a stranger. Most people don't mind giving to private and public charities or organizations like the Salvation Army, Churches, Goodwill, Cancer Society, Feed the Children, etc. But, when it comes to giving to a complete stranger, people freak out. Why?
Let me tell you why? Because, giving to a stranger face to face, can be scary and intimidating, especially, if you've never been poor, homeless or hungry.
“ Give and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” – Luke 6:38
Come out of your comfort zone.
It's time for you to come out of your comfort zone and get extra brownie points with God, by giving to a stranger. Yeah...you get brownie points for giving to charities, but the brownie points you get from giving to a stranger is a greater blessing than charities.
Well, how do you meet a stranger that is poor, homeless or hungry?
Of course, homeless people are everywhere. Have you ever been to a grocery store and seen a mother surrounded by 3 or 4 children, with only a few items in the cart? Did you or would you offer any help? Have you ever pulled up to a gas station, seen a car full of kids and the driver only buying 3.95 cents worth of gas? Asked to pay for more gas or just give them some money and get the kids some ice cream. Hell, ask them can you give the money to the kids. Have you ever asked a church to tell you about a family that needs help with their gas or electric bill? Have you ever brought food to a homeless shelter? Have you ever walked up on kids whose shoes were warn out, dirty clothing or too small coat? Next time, don't turn the other way...ask to help.
God will bless you for all your giving, but look at what's right before your eyes. Did you ever think that every other homeless or poor person you say, "NO" to could be Jesus testing you? What will your record show, when you meet God on judgement day?
My point is, give to those right before your eyes. You can always give to churches and charities, but these people need you right now.
There are some safety rules when meeting a stranger:
Never invite them to your home or give them your address.
Meet them at a public place.
Have your money ready to give, don't reach in your pocket or purse.
Don't give them any personal information.
Explain how you are willing to help.
Know that if you give them money, some will buy drugs and alcohol, but that's not your business. Your business is giving.
Don't follow or go with them anywhere you are not familiar with.