Poverty. Homelessness. Isolation…. People are in need everywhere, and as Christians, our compassion fuels our desire to meet those needs. However, this often happens most visibly during certain seasons when generosity is at the top of minds, like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Yet the needs are still present year-round.
Truly ministering to the orphan, the widow, and others we’re called to serve (James 1:27; Isaiah 1:17, Deuteronomy 10:18, etc.) doesn’t just happen through random acts of kindness, annual service days, or buying extra presents during the holidays, as helpful as those things might be. These brief acts of service make you and the recipient feel great for a moment, and small kindnesses can open hearts (who doesn’t want their Starbucks paid for by the person ahead of them in the drive-thru?), but intentional and ongoing ministry is the best way to have a lasting impact.
Caring for the poor isn’t an option, according to the Bible:
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” (1 John 3:17).
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy” (Proverbs 31:8-9).
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality” (Romans 12:11-13).
These are just a few verses. Scripture doesn’t frame care for the poor as optional or occasional; it’s woven into a life of faith.
Often, the most meaningful ways we serve aren’t flashy or fast. They grow out of following Jesus’s example day by day through presence, relationship, and a willingness to walk with people through complicated stories, whether that’s poverty, addiction, or other hard places. But where do you start? First, pause to think more deeply about how you can participate in types of charity that last. A little wisdom goes a long way here. While there are several principles and practices worth familiarizing yourself with, it’s essential to keep in mind that real change is more likely to happen through relationships that address root causes, not just surface needs.
Next, follow these steps to help find and serve in areas that are meaningful for both you and the people you serve.
1. Pinpoint what interests you. Most people are naturally drawn to certain types of people and causes. Ask yourself, “What do I care about? Who/what have I cared about since I was a child?”
- Single moms often carry invisible pressures year-round and may need practical and relational support.
- Isolated individuals, especially senior citizens, would welcome someone to share a cup of hot tea with or to help with simple household chores.
- Incarcerated parents are often forgotten, even if their families are cared for through other ministries.
- Rehab patients might have burned bridges or strained relationships with family and friends, and could use some fellowship.
2. Discover good programs around you. Be wise and do a little research. Read the websites of possible organizations. Search to see if they offer life skills or budgeting classes and/or mentoring opportunities. Determine whether they are Christ-centered or materially based.
Your church also might partner with great charities in your area, so ask or search for ministry partners on your church website.
3. Ask God for clarity, boldness, and wisdom. “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).
Don’t let your lack of knowledge or experience stop you from stepping out in faith. Securing a “buddy” to serve alongside is wise. However, institutional large-group approaches, no matter how well-intentioned, rarely have a lasting impact, unless they break into smaller, more personalized groups.
Remember that it’s also important to set boundaries. Refrain from allowing the organization or individuals you serve to ask for too much of your time, finances, or mental capacity. Know your limits.
4. Adjust your expectations. As the old saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” People in poverty and other troubling life circumstances rarely arrive at their current state overnight. Often, years of hard knocks and sometimes poor decisions have paved the way to their present circumstances, so change won’t happen overnight either. You will need time and patience as you walk alongside them to a better destination and a brighter future.
5. Commit to what you can 100% follow through with, not what you envision yourself doing in a perfect situation. Steward your time and your gifts for maximum kingdom impact. And remember, “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’… All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one” (Matthew 5:33-34a, 37).
No matter who or when you choose to serve, plan for ways to remain present after the initial momentum or excitement fades. When relationships are reduced to one-off interactions, it can communicate disinterest rather than care.
Try your best to stay involved with the individuals you’ve served moving forward. Here are some suggestions to help make this happen:
- Read a book together.
- Use a free video course to learn something new.
- Complete a Bible study.
- Attend church together.
- Meet for coffee, dessert, or a meal once or twice a month.
- Jog together.
- Play pickleball.
Faithful service doesn’t just change circumstances. It shapes who we become. However you decide to stay engaged, you and the person you serve will both be blessed by true charity.
