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Psalm 113:5-8 - Lifting the Needy.

Psalm 113:5-8 (NKJV) Who is like the LORD our God, Who dwells on high, 6 Who humbles Himself to behold The things that are in the heavens and in the earth? 7 He raises the poor out of the dust, And lifts the needy out of the ash heap, 8 That He may seat him with princes - With the princes of His people.

INTRODUCTION

   In God's eyes, a person's value has no relationship to his or her wealth or position on the social ladder. Many people who have excelled in God's work began in poverty or humble beginnings. God supersedes the social orders of this world, often choosing his future leaders and ambassadors from among social outcasts. Do you treat the unwanted in society as though they have value? Do you see them as God does? Demonstrate by your actions that all people are valuable and useful in God's eyes.
   The psalm writer emphasizes the glory and transcendence of God in this song. But in conclusion, he shows how the heights of God's glory and wonder are matched by his compassion for those who have been laid low by life circumstances. Here the writer draws particular attention to two kinds of people that God particularly cares for: the poor and the childless. The ancient world gave special honor to the wealthy and those who had many children, especially sons. Our own cultures today tend to ignore and disparage the poor and those unable to have children. We learn here that God honors and fulfills the desires of those the world forgets the most. Ultimately, this promise will be fulfilled in the new heaven and new earth, where Jesus will restore all creation and provide for all of our needs (Revelation 21: 1-7). But what about today? How can we better love those who are suffering in these ways in our communities and churches? In what ways is God calling you to give and serve? [Life Application SB 2019]

COMMENTARY PEARL

   An Amazing Fact: According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, about 925 million people in the world are undernourished - that's one in seven. Poor nutrition kills at least 5,000,000 children every year.
   Starvation is only one of the heart-wrenching problems that affect the poor and the needy. Clean drinking water and proper medical care are two more critical needs, and there are many others.
   Psalm 113 says that God "raises the poor out of the dust, and lifts the needy out of the ash heap, that He may seat him with princes" (vs. 7,8). This shows the great value God places on the poor. The Bible says, "Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?" (James 2:5). The people who suffer in poverty are as important to God as the rulers of the nations. They are just as surely His children.
   It's easy to be overwhelmed by the sad statistics, even to be stunned into inaction. After all, what can one person do against such widespread tragedy and desperation? The truth is we can all do something, at least in some small way, to alleviate the suffering in the world.
   Love for God obligates us to act. As ambassadors for Christ, we must continue His work of lifting up the needy with our love. [Moving Mountains by Amazing Facts]

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of The Talents.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2020/20200731-1116.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/