Sharing the Relief: 5 Ways Christians Can Help Others in Need with Their COVID-19 Checks

Make a difference with your COVID-19 relief check! Discover 5 ways to help others based on Biblical principles. Support your community and spread love today.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people worldwide in different ways, and many are struggling to make ends meet. The US government has provided relief checks to help ease the financial burden, and there are ways to use the money to help others. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves, and this is an opportunity to do just that.

In this article, we will explore ways to use your relief check to help others, based on Biblical principles.

1. Give to Your Church or Local Charity
One way to use your relief check is to give to your church or local charity. Many churches and charities are struggling to meet the needs of their communities during this time. Giving to them can help provide essential services, such as food and shelter, to those in need.

In the Bible, we are taught to give to those in need, and this is an opportunity to do just that. In Proverbs 19:17, it says, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done."

2. Support Small Businesses
Small businesses have been hit hard during the pandemic, and many are struggling to stay afloat. By using your relief check to support small businesses, you can help them keep their doors open and support the local economy.

In Romans 12:13, it says, "Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." Supporting small businesses is a way to practice hospitality and show love to our neighbors.

3. Help Your Neighbors
You can also use your relief check to help your neighbors who may be struggling financially. This could mean buying groceries for an elderly neighbor, paying a bill for a single-parent family, or even just leaving a generous tip for a delivery driver.

In Luke 10:27, Jesus teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves. By helping our neighbors in need, we are living out this commandment.

4. Give to International Organizations
The pandemic has affected people worldwide, and there are international organizations that are working to provide aid and assistance to those in need. Giving to these organizations can help provide essential resources to those who may not have access to them otherwise.

In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus says, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me." Giving to international organizations is a way to live out this teaching and help those in need around the world.

5. Invest in Your Future
While it may not seem like using your relief check to invest in your future is a way to help others, it can actually be a way to ensure financial stability for yourself and your family. By using the money to pay off debt or invest in education or job training, you can improve your financial situation and be better equipped to help others in the future.

In Proverbs 21:20, it says, "The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down." Investing in your future is a way to store up for the future and ensure that you are able to continue giving to others in the long term.

Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges, but it has also provided opportunities to help others. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves and use our resources to help those in need. By giving to our churches and local charities, supporting small businesses, helping our neighbors, giving to international organizations, and investing in our future, we can use our relief checks to make a difference in the world.

FAQs

1. Can I use my relief check to buy luxury items?
No, it is not appropriate to use your relief check to buy luxury items. The purpose of the relief check is to help ease the financial burden caused by the pandemic, and using it for unnecessary purchases goes against the spirit of the relief effort.

2. Is it better to give to a local charity or an international organization?
Both local charities and international organizations are in need of assistance during the pandemic. It is up to you to decide where your resources will make the most impact. Consider giving to organizations that align with your values and have a track record of using donations effectively.

3. What if I need the money to pay bills?
If you are struggling to make ends meet, it is understandable that you may need to use your relief check to pay bills. However, consider using a portion of the money to help others if you are able to. Even a small donation can make a difference.

4. Can I donate anonymously?
Yes, many organizations allow for anonymous donations. Check with the organization you are giving to for their policies on anonymity.

5. How can I make sure my donation is being used effectively?
Do your research before giving to any organization. Look for organizations that have a transparent track record of using donations effectively and efficiently. Consider giving to organizations that have been recommended by trusted sources, such as your church or local community leaders.