“She extends her hand to the poor, And she stretches out her hands to the needy.” Proverbs 31:20

This week on social media, an older video remade its way into my heart. It depicts one of my favorite moments from the Rio Olympics where two women running in the 5,000-meter race put aside pride, nationality, and competition to lend each other a helping hand.

As believers, we are to offer a helping hand to others as well. In Proverbs 31, we read of the virtuous woman who “stretches out her hands to the needy”. For centuries, the compassion of this woman of faith has been an inspiration to both men and women. She helps to remind us that extending ourselves to others is a biblical virtue to be exhibited by all believers.

There are many who are struggling or have fallen on hard times and need our assistance. If we can put aside our own ambitions and be quick to outstretch ourselves toward those who are downcast, we become like the Proverbs 31 woman. We help each other “run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1)

Who in your life needs a helping hand?