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Bring Your Boats Read: Proverbs 3:21–31 Bible in a Year: Isaiah 56–58; 2 Thessalonians 2 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Proverbs 3:27 Hurricane Harvey brought catastrophic flooding to eastern Texas in 2017. The onslaught of rain stranded thousands of people in their homes, unable to escape the floodwaters. In what was dubbed the “Texas Navy,” many private citizens brought boats from other parts of the state and nation to help evacuate stranded people. The actions of these valiant, generous men and women call to mind the encouragement of Proverbs 3:27, which instructs us to help others whenever we are able. They had the power to act on behalf of those in need by bringing their boats. And so they did. Their actions demonstrate a willingness to use whatever resources they had at their disposal for the benefit of others. We may not always feel adequate for the task at hand; often we become paralyzed by thinking we don’t have the skills, experience, resources, or time to help others. In such instances, we’re quick to sideline ourselves, discounting what we do have that might be of assistance to someone else. The Texas Navy couldn’t stop the floodwaters from rising, nor could they legislate government aid. But they used what they had within their power—their boats—to come alongside the deep needs of their fellow man. May we all bring our “boats”—whatever they may be—to take the people in our paths to higher ground. Lord, all that I have is from You. Help me to always use what You’ve given me to help others. God provides for His people through His people. 
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We can all do something to help others when we see a need. If we can't help physically, we can send finances to help those who can. But we need to be good stewards and check out places we send money. Locally, we can help others by volunteering or giving to local organizations that help others..... or we can even see a need that a person has, and help that person. I think I will always remember years ago when we had a houseful of kids. Money was tight, but we always had a basement full of vegetables that I canned every year so we never went hungry, but meat was often a luxury. One day, just before Thanksgiving, I looked out at the mailbox, and saw something strange hanging on it. I sent my son out to investigate, and he came back in and said he needed help. It was a huge turkey, all wrapped up and tied to the mailbox. We never knew who put it there, but it sure was greatly appreciated. Be a prism, spreading God's light and love, not a mirror reflecting the world's hatred.
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