Called to Serve: Why Christians Must Extend Help to Others

Introduction

In psychological studies, there is a phenomenon called “mop psychology.” This refers to the tendency where individuals assume that someone else will help a person in need, but as a result, no one takes action. 

For instance, you might see someone who needs help and think another person will step in, even when you’re in a position to assist. Sadly, this often leaves the person in need without aid.

The Call to Help as Christians

Helping should be a daily practice for Christians. It is one of the primary ways we demonstrate God’s love and care to the world. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody His mercy and kindness by extending help to others.

The Bible clearly instructs us in Proverbs 3:27, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” This command urges us to take personal responsibility when we are able to assist. Helping others reflects the mercy God has shown to us. Jesus Himself declared in Luke 6:36, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”

God: Our Ultimate Helper

Our Heavenly Father is described throughout Scripture as the ultimate helper. He is generous in His provisions, even to those who do not acknowledge Him. Matthew 5:45 reminds us: “He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”

In Psalm 121:1-2, the Psalmist boldly proclaims:

"I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

This verse assures us that God is our ever-present source of help, no matter the circumstances.

Seeking Help from God and Helping Others

When we depend on God for help, He often works through people to provide what we need. George Müller, a remarkable example of faith, prayed fervently for assistance rather than asking humans directly. Time after time, his needs were met by God’s providence through willing hearts. His story mirrors Philippians 4:19:

"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus."

In our Christian journey, it’s crucial to remember that God doesn’t just call us to receive help but also to extend help to others. Acts 20:35 exhorts us: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” This mindset should shape our daily interactions, inspiring us to become vessels of God’s love and provision for those in need.

Practical Ways to Help Others

1. Helping doesn’t always require grand gestures—it can be as simple as:
2. Encouraging someone who is downcast (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
3. Sharing resources with those in need (James 2:15-16)
4. Praying for someone in distress (Ephesians 6:18)

Every act of kindness reflects God’s character, bringing glory to His name and blessing others.

Galatians 6:9-10 emphasizes this principle:

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

Extending Help Daily: A Lifestyle of Compassion

One valuable lesson in the Christian walk is recognizing that God brings help when we need it and simultaneously makes us helpers to others. By being sensitive to the needs around us and allowing God to use us, we fulfill His command to love and serve one another (John 13:34-35).

As we seek God’s help daily, let us also be intentional in extending help to those who cross our paths. This cycle of giving and receiving strengthens our faith, builds community, and reflects the heart of Christ.

Final Thoughts

Helping others is not just a responsibility—it is a privilege. As Christians, we have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus, demonstrating His love through our actions.

Whether in small or big ways, may we never hesitate to step in where help is needed, breaking the cycle of inaction and making a lasting impact in the lives of those around us.