Proverbs 19:17 - This verse challenges us

"If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD—and he will repay you!"

 

This verse challenges us: What do you do for the poor on a consistent basis? Do you support ministries to the poor such as Compassion, World Relief, or World Vision? This verse says when you do so, you are lending to the Lord. Notice it's "lending," not giving. God considers himself in debt to you when you help the poor—and he will repay. (Amazing!)

Psalm 79:8–9 - Do not hold us guilty

"Do not hold us guilty for the sins of our ancestors!
   Let your compassion quickly meet our needs,
for we are on the brink of despair.
   Help us, O God of our salvation!
Help us for the glory of your name.
   Save us and forgive our sins
for the honor of your name."

 

This plea asks that God would overlook the sins of his people and let his tenderhearted, merciful nature meet their needs. The psalmist is not afraid to ask that it be done quickly. The people needed help right now! What do you need right now? Don't be afraid to express your true situation to God and ask him to quickly meet your needs. It's in his compassionate and forgiving nature to do so.

Jeremiah 13:15-17 - Pride always leads to separation from God

"Listen and pay attention!
   Do not be arrogant, for the LORD has spoken.
Give glory to the LORD your God
   before it is too late.
Acknowledge him before he brings darkness upon you,
   causing you to stumble and fall on the darkening mountains.
For then, when you look for light,
   you will find only terrible darkness and gloom.
And if you still refuse to listen,
   I will weep alone because of your pride.
My eyes will overflow with tears,
   because the LORD's flock will be led away into exile."

 

Pride always leads to separation from God. It did so for Satan, and it did so for the people of Judah and Israel whom Jeremiah was sent to warn. He warned them out of grace, because God always gives time to repent. But there will come a time when the judgment will come, when pride leads away from God and we finally experience the effects of that choice. Wherever pride is taking root in your life, God will not be there. This passage is your warning; there's still time to turn from any pride in your heart.