There are many people in this world who need a helping hand. It is amazing how much good it does to be the helper as well as the one helped. By reaching out to others, we also reach out to ourselves. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). He spoke in the context of supporting the weak. People often resent being offered help, so wisdom and respect toward those to whom we reach out is vital. The blessing Jesus spoke of was upon the giver, the one who reaches out.

There are times when there is no need to ask if a person needs help—the time is then and now. But at other times a more delicate and thoughtful decision is needed. 

Scouts teach that you should do a good deed every day. There are dozens of ways to do this. A warm and friendly greeting, holding the door open for the next person, giving up your place in line to the elderly or patting a child on the head are all tiny ways that anyone can reach out to others. A friendly smile or greeting may seem small, but has an effect. Paul wrote that those who believe in God need to be careful to maintain good works (Titus 3:8). Maintenance of anything takes regular work and keeping an eye out for potential problems. It develops a mindset that is both willing to help, and yet at the same time, able to wisely choose when, how and who to help. Find someone who really needs help and give it—you will have a rich and abundant life.