How does 2 Chronicles 28:15 encourage us to treat those in need? Setting the scene King Ahaz has led Judah into idolatry. God allows Israel to defeat Judah and take many captives. When some Israelites prepare to enslave their Judean brothers, the prophet Oded rebukes them. Leaders in Ephraim respond in repentance, and verse 15 records their compassionate follow-through. What happens in 2 Chronicles 28:15 “Then the men designated by name took the captives, and from the plunder they clothed all who were naked; they dressed them, gave them sandals, food and drink, and ointment. They put all who were weak on donkeys and brought them to their kinsmen at Jericho, the city of palms. Then they returned to Samaria.” Key actions that model compassion • Clothed every person lacking garments • Provided sandals—meeting practical, everyday needs • Supplied food and drink—sustaining life immediately • Applied ointment—caring for wounds and restoring dignity • Lifted the weak onto donkeys—special assistance for the frail • Escorted them safely home—following through until needs were fully met Principles we learn • Mercy responds quickly and tangibly, not merely with words (cf. James 2:15-16). • Generosity flows from what God has already provided (“from the plunder”). • Compassion respects the image of God in every person, even former enemies. • Care extends to the whole person—body, comfort, health, and safe passage. • True repentance produces visible, costly action (Luke 19:8). Echoes in the rest of Scripture • Proverbs 19:17—“Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD…” • Isaiah 58:6-7—loosing bonds, sharing bread, covering the naked. • Matthew 25:35-36—feeding, clothing, visiting the least of these equals serving Christ. • Luke 10:33-35—the Samaritan binds wounds, provides transport, pays the bill. • 1 John 3:17-18—love shows itself “in deed and truth.” Practical takeaways for today • Notice specific needs—clothing, shelter, medical care, transportation. • Use current resources; God often answers others’ prayers through what He has placed in our hands. • Value dignity—offer help in a way that restores rather than embarrasses. • Go the extra mile—stay involved until the vulnerable are safely established. • Let acts of mercy demonstrate genuine repentance and living faith, reflecting the character of our caring Lord. |
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