Booker T. Washington was a famous African-American who was president of Tuskegee Institute. Once while walking down a street near the school, a white woman, not knowing him, asked if he would like to earn a few dollars by chopping some wood.
Smiling graciously, he chopped the wood as directed, carried it into her house and carefully stacked it near the fireplace. When her daughter recognized who had been chopping and stacking the wood, she went to her mother and informed her. She was shocked when she learned this and went to Mr. Washington, apologizing profusely.
“It’s alright, Madam,” he said politely, “it is a delight to help a friend.” Not long after that incident the lady donated thousands of dollars to the school.
Peter warned, “God opposes the proud, but favors the humble.” Pride is a dangerous thing. It can strip us of our willingness to help others whom God loves and cares for. It is far better to receive the favor of God than any recognition that may come from others. God is always willing, ready and able to bless us for what we do for others.
We must always be available to reach out to others when we see their need. Jesus did.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that whenever anyone anywhere needs our help, we will willingly respond with Your love, kindness and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture for Today: 1 Peter 5:5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
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