Helping Hands

Today we’re talking about helping hands.

Small acts of kindness make big differences, and I think we know that as we have each experienced that throughout our lives. There is just a willingness that comes from those who help out, which is where the impact comes from.

One thing I have always tried to demonstrate to my kids is that holding the door for someone, or even just acknowledging someone who has done that with a simple thank you, makes a difference. It seems small, but if we see a way to offer a helping hand, then we should.

When Hurricane Harvey came through in 2017, so many people were displaced, and the church we attended at the time offered shelter, food, and cleanup help. Meeting those needs during that time made an impact on those in need. People coming together and helping others will always make an impact.

Did you know that anything that you do as an act of service is an expression of faith?

In fact, Hebrews 6:10 says, “For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for Him and how you have shown your love to Him by caring for other believers, as you still do.”

When we serve in faith and in love, we don’t do it for show or recognition, but God sees all. He sees the love and care that you are giving to others, and He knows in your heart that you are doing it because you love Him and want to share that love with others.

Have you ever tried to help someone, but in reality, you were just making things harder for them?

I like to help people, but there have been moments where my being there was more of a hindrance than a help. One time my husband kindly but honestly told me, “Can you please go? You’re in my way.”

I was, of course, offended, but then I saw his point. So now I know — unless I am asked to help, just stay out of the way.

But this doesn’t mean that you negate being helpful. If you see something you can help with, know that you are probably bringing relief and joy to someone’s life.

Let’s not help because we feel obligated — it’s not like your parents are telling you to get up and go help so-and-so and then you sigh and say, “Fine!”

Remember that God uses your hands to bring help, hope, and kindness.

There are many different ways to help people. You can help in practical ways, like opening the door for someone or picking up something that was dropped. You can give emotional support to someone who is going through a hard time and just needs a listening ear. And of course, you can be encouraging, and you can also take the time to pray with someone.

Whatever the Lord guides you to do to help someone, don’t hesitate — just do it.

Jesus saw the needs when He was walking this earth, and He always responded with compassion. The Bible literally says that “Jesus had compassion for them.”

Jesus took time with people, and He helped them in the way He could, and we can do the same. We can help in any way we can, and anything that is helpful is meaningful.

God sees every act of service.

Helping hands are such a great way to spread the love of God. We help, we participate, and we do that through the work of God.

Where might God be inviting you to offer a helping hand today?