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Relieve the Oppressed, August 26
Pure Religion Defined
Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the
fatherless, plead for the widow.
Isaiah 1:17
Jesus, the precious Saviour, the pattern man, was firm as a rock where
truth and duty were concerned. And His life was a perfect illustration of
true courtesy. Kindness and gentleness gave fragrance to His character.
He had ever a kind look and a word of comfort and consolation for the
needy and oppressed....
When you meet those who are careworn and oppressed, who know
not which way to turn to find relief, put your hearts into the work of help-
ing them. It is not God’s purpose that His children shall shut themselves
up to themselves, taking no interest in the welfare of those less fortunate
than themselves. Remember that for them as well as for you Christ has
died. Conciliation and kindness will open the way for you to help them,
to win their confidence, to inspire them with hope and courage.
Let not men allow their business dealing to rob them of their hu-
maneness.... Kind words, pleasant looks, a condescending demeanor,
are of great value. There is a charm in the intercourse of men who are
truly courteous.... How restoring and uplifting the influence of such
dealing upon men who are poor and depressed, borne down to the earth
by sickness and poverty! Shall we withhold from them the balm that
such dealing brings?
Every act of justice, mercy, and benevolence makes melody in heaven.
The Father from His throne beholds those who do these acts of mercy,
and numbers them with His most precious treasures. “And they shall be
Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels.”
Every merciful act to the needy, the suffering, is regarded as though done
to Jesus. When you succor the poor, sympathize with the afflicted and
oppressed, and befriend the orphan, you bring yourselves into a closer
relationship to Jesus.
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