Noticing Those in Need

Defend the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy.”—Psalm 82:3 (NKJV)

I was in a car accident last week. It wasn’t a bad one, simply two cars trying to occupy the same lane. When something like that happens, it’s hard to know who is at fault. 

I pulled to the side of the road to talk to the man with whom I’d just collided. With tears streaming down his face, the other driver said, “I can’t afford this. I live on disability, and my deductible is the same amount of money that I live on each month.” 

I walked back to my car to call the police. As I waited for them to arrive, a woman walked up to my car and said, “I saw the whole accident. He was to blame. Give the police my card, and I’ll testify for you.” I thanked her, feeling relieved.

As I sat there waiting, the Lord pricked my heart. I truly believed He wanted me to pay for the man’s damages. I tried calling my husband. Was I being played? If I helped this man could I be sued down the road? No answer. 

Lord, this wasn’t my fault. Shouldn’t I just let the police ticket him and let his insurance pay for my damages? Again, the Lord nudged my heart.  

The police arrived, and after explaining what happened, I asked—with a bit of uncertainty, “What if the other driver and I agree to work this out between us?” The policeman said that would be fine.

I walked over to the man and said, “I’d like to help you. Let’s see how much the repairs will be.”

Do justice to the “afflicted and needy.” A man living on disability with a sensitive heart . . . did he qualify as afflicted and/or needy? At that moment I truly believe the Lord saw his heart and asked me to help. I believe there are a lot of people we pass by daily who are dressed like the rest of us, quietly living their lives—but overlooked and hurting. 

A few days later, I was explaining the situation to our auto repairman. He said, “I’ve been in this business for thirty years, ma’am, and I’ve never had anyone do what you are doing.” 

Maybe I’m the first, but I hope I’m not the last! Take a chance on someone who may be in need today.

DIG: Pray for God to make your heart sensitive to those in need.

DISCOVER: Ask God to reveal someone in need today. It could be someone you know or someone who bumps into you. 

DISPLAY: Talk to them. Ask questions. Let them know someone has noticed them. Let them know God loves them.