The Cajun Navy ∙∙
Do not withhold good from those who need it, when you have the ability to help. – Proverbs 3:27
Galatians 6:9-10
9 So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. If we don’t give up, we will reap a harvest of blessing at just the right time.
10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone – especially to those in the family of faith.
On August 29, 2017, Hurricane Harvey unleashed its fury as a Category 4 storm, crashing onto the Texas coast near Corpus Christi. Its true devastation unfolded as it hovered over Houston for three relentless days. The storm shattered records, dumping a staggering 60.5 inches of rain on Nederland, Texas, and releasing 50 inches of rain across 28,000 square miles around Houston. Thousands found themselves trapped in their homes, engulfed by rising floodwaters.
In the face of this catastrophe, the good-hearted people of Louisiana demonstrated extraordinary compassion by organizing an impromptu armada known as the Cajun Navy. This band of volunteers embodied a spirit of selflessness and bravery, rallying to assist their Texan neighbors with whatever resources they had, boats of all kinds, from simple fishing vessels to airboats, canoes, and kayaks. Over time, the Cajun Navy grew into a coordinated effort with a mission: “We, the people of Louisiana, refuse to stand by and wait for help in the wake of disasters in our State. We rise up and unite and rescue our neighbors!”
The Father’s standards are high, at times, seemingly almost impossible. We are instructed to do good and be helpful to others. He requires that we live lives of goodwill and helpfulness, characterized by benevolence and kindness. Whenever we are able to do so, we are to do good to those in need.
The actions of the Cajun Navy resonate with a profound moral responsibility that echoes the teachings found in Proverbs 3:27: “Do not withhold good from those who need it when you have the ability to help.”
This call to action reminds us to do the right thing. This requires acting responsibly and with integrity, rooted in sincere intentions. Our actions should focus on what is right and equitable. We are called to live out excellent character and values, adhering to a moral and ethical framework of goodness and rightness.
“With integrity, you have nothing to fear, since you have nothing to hide. With integrity, you will do the right thing, so you will have no guilt” (Zig Ziglar).
In light of our severe limitations of being fallen creatures in a fallen world, we should cut each other a lot of slack. This is precisely what the Father has done for us.
Psalms 103:8-14
8 The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry, and filled with unfailing love.
9 He will not constantly accuse us nor remain angry forever.
10 He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.
11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
12 He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.
13 The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
14 For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust.
It’s easy to think, “They just don’t deserve it!” Yet, Proverbs 3:27 challenges us to set aside the notion of worthiness. The Father never instructed us to determine who is deserving before choosing to act rightly and help others.
Imagine if our relationship with the Father depended on earning a prize to be deemed worthy of His love and assistance. Where would that leave us?
REFLECT & PRAY
“But he doesn’t deserve it!” Neither do you, but God lavishes good things on you every day. We should look for ways to bless others, and so demonstrate to the world the boundless love of God” (Stanley).
Father, You help the helpless. One day, may my heart become more like Yours.
INSIGHT
The Father often helps people through other people. He knows all too well our propensity to feel inadequate, to retreat, and to feel paralyzed. He wisely encourages us to use what we have to help others.
In Hebrew, the phrase translated as “in your power to do it” is literally “in your hands to do.” This idiomatic expression simply means, “It is in your power” or “You have the ability.” That is, you possess the ability to act. Never hesitate to do so whenever anyone needs help, and you can help them (GECL).
It seems like we always have stuff in our hands. He provides opportunities to make good use of it. He tells us to live wisely, making the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:15-16, Titus 3:8).
Galatians 6:9-10
9 Let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone – especially to those in the family of faith.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.
The Greek term oligopsychous, which literally means “short of soul,” refers to timid, fainthearted, or discouraged people. It vividly describes someone who perceives their resources as insufficient for the challenges they face (Friberg). Such individuals often find themselves quickly overwhelmed and discouraged.
Encouragement plays a vital role for those who feel inadequate. It involves bolstering their courage and instilling a sense of confidence. It’s about removing the veil of fear and empowering them to face their circumstances with renewed strength.
Interestingly, the Father often asks us questions. Why? He doesn’t seek information since He knows everything. Instead, His questions often help us recognize our resources and opportunities. Through these questions, He guides us in identifying our hidden strengths and seizing the opportunities before us, allowing us to view our potential in a new light.
Exodus 4:2 The LORD said to him [Moses], “What is that in your hand?” And he said, “A staff.”
What is in your hands?
¯_(ツ)_/¯6-11-1
© Dr. H 2024
Dr H Reflections 