How can we support those seeking refuge, as seen in Isaiah 21:15? Seeing the Need in Isaiah 21:15 “For they have fled from swords— from the drawn sword, from the bent bow, and from the pressure of battle.” The verse pictures exhausted people running from violence. They are empty-handed and traumatized. A few lines earlier (v. 14) God directs the people of Tema to “bring water for the thirsty” and “meet the fugitives with bread.” The command is immediate, tangible, and compassionate. Principles for Supporting Refugees • Physical relief comes first. The thirsty get water; the hungry get bread. • Help is proactive, not passive. Tema’s inhabitants do not wait for requests; they “bring” and “meet.” • Dignity is preserved. Refugees are received as guests, not burdens. • Urgency matters. Battle is raging; delay could be fatal. • God’s heart is behind the command. To care for the vulnerable is to mirror His character (Psalm 146:9). Practical Ways We Can Respond Today 1. Provide basic necessities – Food, water, clothing, hygiene supplies – Safe shelter or help locating housing 2. Offer presence and protection – Escort newcomers through unfamiliar systems (legal, medical, educational) – Stand against exploitation or discrimination 3. Give emotional and spiritual support – Listen to stories without judgment – Share Scripture and worship in their heart language when possible 4. Mobilize resources – Partner with churches, relief agencies, and local authorities – Coordinate deliveries, transportation, and childcare 5. Pursue long-term empowerment – Language tutoring and job-skill training – Mentoring for school-age children and youth Encouragement from the Rest of Scripture • Deuteronomy 10:18-19 — God “executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing. And you are to love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” • Leviticus 19:34 — “The foreigner living among you must be treated as one of your native-born. Love him as yourself.” • Matthew 25:35 — “I was a stranger and you welcomed Me.” • Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers.” • James 2:15-16 — Practical help validates genuine faith. • Proverbs 31:8-9 — “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” Putting It into Practice • Look for refugees in your community and introduce yourself. • Join or form a church team dedicated to hospitality ministries. • Allocate a portion of your budget for consistent giving to reputable relief organizations. • Advocate for fair treatment and policies that uphold human dignity. • Keep Scripture at the center, reminding everyone involved that caring for refugees is obedience to the Lord who rescued us. |
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