My Answer: Look at the Positive Side
Q: I volunteer several times a week in a homeless shelter our church supports, but I get very discouraged because it doesn't seem like we're making any progress. We just keep seeing the same people over and over. I'm about to give up. Why should we bother? - R.R.
A: I commend you and your church for your efforts, and I hope you won't give up. This past Christmas someone reminded me that Jesus knew what it was to be homeless, because He and His parents had to flee to Egypt when King Herod tried to kill Him (see Matthew 2:13-15).
Why should you bother, when it doesn't seem like you're making any progress? For one thing, ask yourself what would happen if this shelter closed. Put yourself in the shoes of someone who is homeless; where would you go? In all likelihood, some people in your town are alive today because they've received food and shelter through this facility.
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Take heart also from the small victories (some of which you may not even realize). Yes, perhaps you do see some people over and over again - but what about those you don't see, because they've been able to get jobs or overcome their addictions or get help in other ways through this ministry? Don't just focus on the negative side; look at the positive side also.
Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matthew 25:40). Ask God to help you see this as an opportunity to serve Him, as you serve others. And ask Him also to make you a witness to Christ's transforming power and love.
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Affectionately known as the "World's Preacher" for more than 60 years, the Rev. Billy Graham is one of the most influential and respected spiritual leaders of the 20th century. He has been a friend and spiritual advisor to ten American presidents and has preached the Gospel to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history — nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories — through various meetings. Hundreds of millions more have been reached through television, video, film, and webcasts. Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.
