Give People Your Last Cigarette - A Biblical Perspective
When it comes to helping others, we often make excuses as to why we can't or shouldn't get involved. Whether it's because we're too busy, don't have the resources, or simply don't know how, there's always a reason not to help. But what does the Bible say about helping others? Is it our responsibility? And if so, how far should we go?
In the book of James, we are instructed to "suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?" (James 2:15-16). This verse makes it clear that simply wishing someone well is not enough - if we have the means to help, we are responsible for doing so.
But what does it mean to help? Does it mean giving money to every homeless person we see on the street? Or volunteering at a soup kitchen once a week? While both of these things are certainly helpful, I believe there is another level of helping that is often overlooked.
In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'" Who are the "least of these"? I believe this includes not only those who are without food or shelter, but also those who are struggling with addiction, mental illness, and other forms of brokenness. These are the people who society has forgotten - the ones who slip through the cracks.
So how can we help the "least of these"? One way is by simply showing them compassion and love. This may look like giving a homeless person your last cigarette rather than pretending you don't see them. It might mean having a conversation with someone who is addicted to drugs rather than judging them. It might mean offering a listening ear to someone who is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. Sometimes, all it takes is a kind word or a simple act of kindness to let someone know they are not alone. 
When it comes to helping others, we often make excuses as to why we can't or shouldn't get involved. But what does the Bible say about helping others? Is it our responsibility? And if so, how far should we go? James 2:15-16 tells us that simply wishing someone well is not enough - if we have the means to help, we are responsible for doing so. And in Matthew 25:40, Jesus says that whatever we do for "the least of these," we do for Him. So how can we help the "least of these"? One way is by simply showing them compassion and love. This may look like giving a homeless person your last cigarette rather than pretending you don't see them. It might mean having a conversation with someone who is addicted to drugs rather than judging them. It might mean offering a listening ear to someone who is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. Sometimes, all it takes is a kind word or a simple act of kindness to let someone know they are not alone. Let us all remember that we are called to love our neighbor - no matter who they are or where they come from - and treat them with compassion and respect.