I think I might have had what could only be called “first world guilt” recently. We have been SO blessed in Australia during the Coronavirus pandemic so far! Compared to so many other places around the world, we have gotten off very lightly for lots of reasons. Being in Australia during 2020 and now 2021, I think I’ve seen more clearly than ever the benefits that can come from living in an affluent country. Hence the feelings of guilt along with feeling very, very blessed. What to do with these feelings? 

When in doubt, study the Bible.

Firstly, it’s important to remember that God’s love for us doesn’t have anything to do with our bank balance or the country we live in. He doesn’t care if we are rich or poor. We can all love Him and give Him praise and glory in our own special ways, no matter what our circumstance. That is very clear to see in Hebrews Chapter 11, the famous faith chapter, which is a big list of some of the most faithful people in the Bible, both rich and poor.

Secondly, being more well-off, or living in a more well-off society than someone else, is not a sin. Look at Joseph of Arimathea, a rich follower of Jesus in Matthew 27. It was his wealth and position of influence that allowed him to not only get to meet the Roman leader Pilate face to face, but to also convince him to give over Jesus’ body to him and then bury Jesus in fine linen that he provided, inside a tomb that he purchased. Such an important act! Could he have achieved this if he had given away all his wealth and influence when he became a follower?

Quite clearly we all do our best to give God glory no matter what our circumstance. If you like me, find yourself living in a first world country with the affluence that comes along with that, there are lots of things we can do to help others. Rather than talk about how and what though, I want to look at why. We’re all here to give God glory right? How can giving and helping give God glory? Check this.

In 2 Corinthians chapter 9 Paul is telling the church in Corinth to give support money to the church in Jerusalem because they are struggling. In verses 11-13 Paul says, “…When we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving — the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:11-13, NLT)

Helping others is not only something that God loves seeing us do; it can also result in people thanking Him. Giving Him glory! What a wonderful incentive to help us keep our eyes open for as many chances as possible to show love and help those around us.