DECLUTTER TO HELP
Anais Taboas Gattasso
Today's Scripture: “For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.’ Deuteronomy 15:11, ESV
Theme: One reason to declutter your finances is so that God can use you to help those who need your help.
NEED WILL ALWAYS BE PRESENT
Unfortunately, there will always be poor individuals. Someone will always need money, food, emotional support, or assistance. We are reminded of this need daily through news sources that continue to share information regarding an impending financial crisis and the end of government subsidy programs. We're reminded of this need through social media campaigns such as "Giving Tuesday”—a global day for charity and generosity, encouraging financial donations or volunteer efforts. Even at your local grocery store, we're reminded of the continuous need through "Round-Up" programs, where the cashier will ask whether you'd like to round up to serve a non-profit organization. Due to these constant reminders, we have to force ourselves not to be desensitized to this truth and remind ourselves that we've been tasked to open our hands to our neighbors.
Early in my legal career, I left a lucrative private practice opportunity to work for a legal aid organization. One of my primary functions was to provide free legal services to those who could not afford them. I am now in my eighth year of legal aid service and am reminded daily of the constant need in our community, state, and country. Even with this reminder, I am guilty of growing desensitize or worse—apathetic.
FROM APATHY TO ACTION
While I work for a non-profit and consider myself a generous person, I am guilty of shutting my heart down to the need. During the last few months, I caught myself giving less, due to increasing childcare, grocery, and housing expenses. I even make excuses and tell myself that I already earn less than my peers and can’t continue to give more of my time and resources. However, Scripture reminds me to “give freely” and with an open heart and hands. The blessings we’ve received in our life are from God, and in return, I should offer those blessings to others.
In the last few months, I’ve grown more aware of our budget and learned new ways to share my blessings with others. Sometimes, it looks like buying two extra boxes of Mac and Cheese while grocery shopping to donate to the Cove Marketplace. At other times, it looks like decluttering our household for unused items, such as unopened boxes of diapers or clothing, that could benefit others. It may also include donating a portion of a raise or bonus to a charitable organization that benefits unhoused individuals and families.
Make It Personal: Opening our hands to those in need doesn't have to mean a large donation. Explore ways to give that fit your budget, such as donating an item or two each week to the Cove Marketplace or another charitable organization.
Pray: Lord, please forgive our moments of closed fists. Thank You for continuing to bless us through immeasurable gifts. Help us see the poor as an opportunity to serve You and open our hands in appreciation. In Your Name we pray. Amen.
Read: Deuteronomy 15:10; Galatians 6:10; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Matthew 25:37-40
Weekly Memory Verse: “Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the firstfruits of all your produce.” Proverbs 3:9, ESV