WHEN I AM SICK OR DISCOURAGED, WHO CARES?

BIBLE PASSAGE:
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
human beings that you care for them? 
(Psalm 8:1-4)

MEDITATION:
We live in a world where selfishness and self-centeredness is increasing
and genuine concern for others is decreasing.
As a result, many folks are left ‘high and dry’ 
when they desperately need to know someone cares.

Oh sure, people will post caring phrases, poems, etc. on social media,
but many will not go out of their way to show a personal concern for others.
Why? I guess it’s because 
it will require a sacrifice of their own personal time.
It is easy to see this lack of effort in friends, 
but it is also evident in families.

How did we get to this point?
It seems fairly obvious:
when God Spirit lives within a person, there is a natural concern for others; 
when His Spirit is not vibrant and alive, lack of concern is prevalent.

The Psalmist was overwhelmed (and we should be as well), 
when he thought about how the omnipotent God of the universe 
was still aware of his existence, and cared for him.
If no one else seems to care or shows they care, God still cares.
He set the standard for those who follow Him.

ACTION:
How good are you about showing your care and concern for others?
Do you pray for the sick, the hurting, and the lost often...by name?
When is the last time you have inconvenienced yourself in order to 
physically show your concern for someone who is sick or discouraged?
Is God’s Spirit living within you, 
or have you made a choice to do things your own way?
Either His Spirit is in control, or you are in control...it can’t be both.

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, forgive me for not allowing Your Spirit to live within 
me and influence my actions, including showing concern for others. I pray 
that You would not allow Satan to distort my thinking so that I refuse to 
show concern for others, because others haven’t shown concern for me. 
Help me to always be encouraged by knowing that Your Word says that 
You care for me. Thank You for always being there for me, and for hearing 
my prayers. Help me to be willing to make personal sacrifices to show care 
and concern for others, and to make special efforts to encourage those who 
are hurting.”

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