Homeless: Displaced and Without Shelter
The condition of being without a permanent dwelling place, whether due to circumstances beyond one's control, economic hardship,
persecution, or other factors. Throughout Scripture, homelessness is portrayed as an opportunity for God's people to demonstrate compassion,
generosity, and faith.
Biblical Examples of Homelessness
The Israelites were homeless for 40 years in the desert after their exodus from Egypt. This period tested their faith and dependence on God, who provided manna, water, and protection throughout (Num 32:13; Deut 8:2-4).
Jesus Himself experienced homelessness during His earthly ministry, declaring, "The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head" (Lk 9:58). This reveals Christ's solidarity with the poor and displaced.
The Apostle Paul spoke candidly about experiencing homelessness and hardship as he traveled to spread the gospel. He described himself as "poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything" (2 Cor 6:10; 1 Cor 4:11).
Abraham lived as a foreigner and stranger in the land of promise, dwelling in tents (Heb 11:9). David fled from Saul and lived as a fugitive in caves (1 Sam 22:1). Elijah, fleeing persecution, was sustained by ravens and a widow (1 Kgs 17:2-16).
Our Call to Action
We are to use our worldly wealth to bless the disadvantaged, including the homeless. Scripture instructs us to share generously with those in need, recognizing that our possessions are temporary gifts from God meant to be used for His purposes (Lk 16:9; 2 Cor 8:14-15; 1 Tim 6:17-19).
Jesus taught that serving the poor, hungry, stranger, and those without adequate clothing is serving Him directly: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (Mt 25:40). This transforms our attitude from judgment to compassion.
We are to act as doing it unto Christ
The Bible commands believers to show hospitality to strangers. We must share with those in need and practice hospitality without grumbling (Rom 12:13; Heb 13:2; 1 Pet 4:9).
Our faith must be expressed through practical action. James challenges believers: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?" (Jas 2:15-16; Mt 5:42; Jas 2:14-17).
Our faith must be outworked
Heavenly Reward
Jesus promised blessing when we help those who cannot repay us. He instructed, "When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous" (Lk 14:12-14).
Our ultimate reward for caring for the homeless is in heaven. Jesus assured His followers that those showing kindness to the needy will receive eternal inheritance. God will not forget our work and love shown to His people (Heb 6:10; Mt 6:19-21; Lk 14:14).
Our ultimate reward is in heaven
Scripture reveals God's special concern for the homeless, poor, and marginalized. He commands His people to defend the cause of the fatherless and widow, love the foreigner, and give freely to those in need (Deut 10:18-19; Ps 68:5-6; Prov 19:17).
Reflection and Application:
- Consider those in your community who are homeless or displaced.
- Reflect on how you might use your resources to help those in need.
- Remember that serving the disadvantaged is serving Christ Himself.
- Trust that your kindness will be rewarded in heaven.
See also: generosity, golden rule, home, hospitality, needy, poor, poverty, reward.