POOR BUT LAZY

A friend has a habit of helping those in need. Some are given regular assistance. Unfortunately, someone who often receives help becomes lazy to work. He relies on my friend's assistance. He even dares to ask for it by mentioning the amount. My friend refused because he needed a lot of money for cancer treatment. Unexpectedly, the person became very angry.

Paul often experienced shortages. This happened because of the risks of Gospel ministry work. He had been imprisoned, rejected, and exiled. Nevertheless, Paul never made his poverty an excuse to be lazy or demand help from the people he served. On the contrary, in difficult circumstances, Paul continued to work by making tents (see Acts 18:3).

The key to Paul's resilience - which is evident through his spirit of continuing to work in poverty - is a mature spiritual heart attitude. Paul testified that he could endure everything as long as he always relied on the Lord. Therefore, Paul did not demand human compassion. Paul remained grateful, continued to strive and work, and learned to be content.

We too must be strong and responsible in the midst of poverty, not lazy or relying on assistance. Make poverty an opportunity to learn to depend on the Lord with an active attitude! By doing so, the Lord will give strength to endure, work, and even continue to serve the Lord. --EBL/www.renunganharian.net