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Much has been written about benevolence and helping the poor. But when does helping the poor hit a tipping point where you are "giving a man a fish," but failing to "teach a man to fish?" 

I don't think there is a clean answer to that question, at least not one that serves as a tidy roadmap which fits all people in all occasions.  As a church, we have to be led by the Holy Spirit when we encounter those in need. Additionally, we need to ensure that our programs of giving are not leading to cycles of dependence. 

This linked story from Ministry Watch, (access it by clicking --> here <--) tells of two initiatives that teach the young among us, the value of work in a vocational setting - giving them skills and a sense of industry that will serve them well in life. The statistics that they cite show that 1/3 of children raised in poverty never escape it. 

By God's grace, and with the leading of his Spirit, we can help reverse that statistic here in the Northside of St. Joseph. We should provide for families and individuals on three levels: (1) leading them to Jesus, (2)  meeting immediate physical needs,  and (3) helping them escape a lifestyle of poverty.  

If we can only accomplish one of those three, may it be a spiritual awakening that leads to faith in God according to his Word. 

Selah.