Verse of the Day: Help Others in Need

17 But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?

18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.

1 John 3:17-18 (NKJV)

If God enables us to be materially wealthy and have the means to help others, we should do so because we are Christians with the love of God in us. Another translation says that if we “have enough money to live well” we should help a brother or sister in need. This shows our true heart in helping others.

What good is money really if it can’t help someone in need. Once you have enough to “live well” what does more money do for you? It lets you buy “better things” but it will not help our spiritual condition. Helping others in need “feels good” because you can make a difference!

From the Life Application Bible:

Verses 17-18: These verses give an example of how to give up our life for others – to help those in need. This is strikingly similar to James’ teaching (James 2:14-17). How clearly do your actions say you really love others? Are you as generous as you should be with your money, possessions, and time?