“Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name Jah, and rejoice before him. A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation” (Psalm 68:4-5).
Reading the latter part of the scripture above in the Contemporary English Version shows that the Lord is making direct reference to orphans: “Our God, from your sacred home you take care of orphans ….” He’s a Father to the fatherless—orphans, and He wants us—His children to be concerned about the plight of orphans around the world. When a young child loses one or both parents, the impact could be very devastating. Such a child is like one who has suddenly been thrust into a desert place, without a guide to show him the way. There’s no parent to instruct him and provide answers to life’s pressing issues.
As you study the Scriptures, you can’t but notice the Lord’s passion for orphans. In the Old Testament, He said to the Jews: “If you forget to bring in a stack of harvested grain, don’t go back in the field to get it. Leave it for the poor, including… orphans…and the LORD will make you successful in everything you do” (Deuteronomy 24:19 CEV). When Jesus was departing the earth, He said to His disciples, “I won’t leave you like orphans. I will come back to you” (John 14:18 CEV). The Master understood the pain they would experience when He was gone, and so, He assured them that the Holy Spirit—One to be their Father in His place would come.
Become personally concerned about orphans. You don’t have to be in their shoes to feel their pains. Pray for them and help them in whatever capacity you can. The Lord will surely reward you for caring for them. Don’t wait until you have the resources to establish a large orphanage; start from where you are right now, with what you can afford. Look around and reach out to help that child who is desperately in need of the love, care and support God has empowered you to give. Make a difference in that one life today!
Yes, God is the Father to the fatherless, but you’re His extension; He can only bless the poor and help the needy through you! You’re His outstretched hand of love to that needy child. I pray that the Lord will empower you, and grant you the resources you require to enable you bring hope, love and care to orphans and other destitute children in our societies who are desperately in need of help.
Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for opening my eyes to the needs of orphans all around the world. Today, your Word has located me as the helper of the poor and needy, and your outstretched hand of blessing to the fatherless! I ask that you help me recognize every opportunity to show love, compassion and care to those in need, especially children, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Further Study
Galatians 2:10
Proverbs 23:10-11; Psalm 68:5 MSG
(Taken by permission from Christ Embassy Church , aka Believer’s LoveWorld Ministries , Lagos, Nigeria. www.ChristEmbassy.org )
