JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Relationship-Building Principle comes from Jeremiah 22:15.

Josiah was the last righteous king in the land of Judah before their captivity in Babylon. The LORD said this about King Josiah:

“He did what was right and just, so all went well with him. He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me?” declares the LORD.

His example was very different from his successor whose heart was set on dishonest gain, the shedding of innocent blood, oppression, and extortion.

Whatever platform God gives us, that is an opportunity to use our influence for good or evil. Having a relationship with God will move us to use that influence for good. In Josiah’s case, he defended the cause of the poor and needy, whereas his successor exploited them.

Helping those in poverty was a cause that united the early church, and it can be an effort that unites the church today.

Upholding the cause of the poor is a vital relationship-building principle to take to heart in the Year of Connection.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com