September 10, 2026 Morning Devotional
Morning Devotion: Read Proverbs
Proverbs 28:27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
Proverbs 21:13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
The problem with giving to those who are in need is determining if they are in genuine need.
I was once in line at a big box store standing behind a man who had all sorts of camping equipment in his arms. He was bragging about the fact that he had conned a pastor into giving him money for lodging and food. He was using the money to go camping and laughing about his achievement.
I once had a man approach me asking of money to go to a job sight for he had work and no money for transportation, he was in construction. I asked to see if he had his permits to work in construction. He said yes; when he opened his wallet to show his permit, there were several $20 dollar bills sitting in his wallet. He was caught trying to deceive me for money.
I was once approached by someone needing money to for a ride to another town. He was with his supposed daughter. I quickly turned and asked his daughter the address of their destination. They got caught because she had no idea where they were going and said so. They just wanted money.
I can give you scenario after scenario of people deceiving and conning others for food or gas or just money when they are not in true need. Most of the time they simply want money for drugs.
So, what is the true need?
Proverbs 28:27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
Proverbs 21:13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
I was approached by a lady who needed groceries. I checked her home before buying her groceries. She was genuinely in need, her shelves were empty. We went to the grocery store and filled a shopping cart with whatever she needed. This dear lady was so grateful for the food thanking us profusely.
There is a difference between the genuinely poor and the con artist. My friend if someone is truly in need and is poor God’s will is that we help.
We as Christians should understand that principle above all for we were all in need of salvation and Christ Jesus left the glories of heaven to give satisfy that need and give us eternal life.
Romans 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
The next principle is this: many people are in need of salvation. You as a believer have the answer and the capability to meet their need. Would you give to those who are poor spiritually? Would you share the gospel with them?
The choice is still yours,
Pastor Cook
