THESE little folks look quite forlorn in their tattered garments, barefeet and unkempt hair. There is a sad expression on the little girl’s face, and her hand is extended as if asking for alms. They are probably little beggars, and are now, perhaps, hungry and discouraged, for their basket is empty, and the poor boy is wiping the tears from his eyes on his sister’s apron.
It is sad to see anyone in this destitute condition; and sadder still to think of the many hundreds and thousands of suffering poor, who have not food enough to keep them from hunger, and who have not sufficient clothing to protect them from the cold.
I hope that the, dear boys and girls who read this paper will ever be ready to help those who are in need. God tells us, “Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he shall also cry himself, but shall not be heard.” Prov. 21:1313Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. (Proverbs 21:13).
It would be a dreadful thing to cry to God and not have Him hear us; and if we would avoid this, we must not stop our ears at the cry of the poor. Again God tells us. “He that bath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will He pay him again.” Prov. 19:1717He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again. (Proverbs 19:17). Now is it not wonderful and beautiful to think that we can lend to the Lord; and to know when we help the poor that the Lord takes note of it?
Maybe some of you think you, would like to help needy ones, but you think you have nothing to give. Let me suggest a little plan to those of you who have faith in God—for without faith we cannot please Him. Heb. 11:66But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6). It is only those who are the Lord’s who can acceptably serve Him. This is the plan: Get a little box, which you might, call “the Lord’s box,” if you like, and put it in some drawer, or safe place. When you have money given you, put part of it in this box; or if you are old enough to earn money in some way, always put aside a portion for the Lord, out of what you receive. Then ask the Lord, to guide you as to how to use what you have devoted to Him.
When need arises for the poor, or when help is needed for the work of the Lord, you will have a little fund on hand from which you can draw with a glad heart.
It is a very great privilege to be able to give to the Lord; and He grants us this privilege, and gives His rich blessing with it Try this plan dear children. You will find your hearts will be opened, your souls will be enriched. And in a special way God’s love will rest upon you.
“The liberal soul shall be made fat.”
ML 01/05/1902