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Proverbs, Part 16: Application
2 CommentsYesterday I preached from Proverbs 14:31: “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” The sermon highlighted Proverbs’ teaching that the way we relate to those in need reveals how we relate to God himself.
You can listen online or download an mp3 of the message, and use the following questions prepared by pastor Don DeVries to reflect on how to apply it to your life:
1. Why does Scripture tell us that the way we relate to those in need reveals how we relate to God, himself?
2. Are there any specific ways—in your family, at work or within the church—you have disregarded the needs of the poor? What would repentance and change look like?
3. Josh taught us that oppression of the poor can also be an attitude of the heart. Do you harbor any attitudes of superiority toward the poor or needy? Have you withheld friendship or fellowship from someone because of their financial status? How can you grow and change?
4. Are you aware of any in need (in your family, within or outside the church) for whom you could show compassion by giving of your time and/or resources?
5. How should the gospel envision and motivate us to demonstrate love and care to the poor and needy?
Also, feel the freedom to download a summary (PDF, 68kb) of the message.
I had an opportunity to speak with someone that was at the service while I was serving. He said his comprehension of everything isn’t that great and things don’t sink in deep enough for him to fully understand it.
BUT…he did say during your sermon you took a small concept and explained it in so many different ways that he understood.
Be encouraged God’s words are sinking deep into souls. My hope is he always comes back for more.
By Jody Belknap on 10/26/2009I especially appreciated Pastor Josh sharing a personal story about how when someone showed some kindness to one of his family members that it spilled over to him, and how that was an indirect way of honoring him.
So could it be said that: Those who oppress a child (son or daughter) insult their parents, but those who help a son or daughter honor their parents?
This lead me to get a clear definition for the word “oppress” which can be defined as to “ill-treat”
I learned a hard lesson a few years ago that damaged a long term relationship when I did not do a favor for a friend’s daughter. At the time I believed that a “special favor” was going to be out of order in that I would not be able to make good on a “deadline”. My friend was “dishonored” because I did not show favor in this situation.
Perhaps this is not the way we are to respond, but many of us may be “wired” this way.
So Josh’s message gave me some revelation (after many years) as to why this person was somewhat offended. Many thanks Pastor Josh.
By Greg Weiser on 10/27/2009Commenting for this entry is closed. We close commenting on all blog entries after 30 days to avoid spammers who try to exploit older blog posts.