Transformative Partnership: Humility, Compassion, and Lasting Change

Summary

Thank you, West Rome, for your faithful partnership over the past 11 years. Together, we’ve learned that real, lasting change in communities—whether in Haiti, Peru, Ethiopia, or the Dominican Republic—comes not from quick fixes, but from consistent, humble presence and deep listening. The journey began with a desire to help orphans and vulnerable children, but as we listened to local leaders, we discovered that the root causes of abandonment and poverty run much deeper. Extreme poverty, not a lack of love, often forces families into impossible choices. By going upstream—supporting education, empowering families to launch small businesses, and investing in local leadership—we’ve seen cycles of poverty begin to break.

The stories of leaders like Pastor Jean-Alix in Haiti and Rod in the Dominican Republic remind us that humility is foundational. These are people who could have chosen comfort and safety elsewhere, but instead, they remain in hard places, serving their communities with empathy, compassion, and action. Their example challenges us to see every person as made in the image of God, regardless of background, belief, or circumstance. Humility opens our eyes to the needs around us, empathy allows us to see ourselves in others, and compassion moves us to act.

We also recognize that poverty is not just material. In the West, we may not face material lack, but we often experience spiritual, relational, and even time poverty. As we serve others, our own hearts are changed. The gospel calls us to a posture of humility, to look not only to our own interests but to the interests of others, following the example of Christ who emptied himself for our sake.

When we approach challenges with humility, empathy, and compassion, our actions become sustainable and transformative. We don’t come in as saviors, but as partners, listening and learning from those we serve. Whether it’s addressing trafficking in Peru through education and empowerment, or building schools and clean water systems in the Dominican Republic, the work is always about partnership, dignity, and long-term vision.

Today, the invitation is simple: let’s continue to walk in humility, see the image of God in every person, and act with compassion. Whether you can give a little or a lot, every act of generosity matters. Together, we can fund a classroom, support a teacher, and change the trajectory of children’s lives. And if you feel called, come and see the work firsthand. Let’s keep taking those small steps, trusting God to multiply our efforts for His kingdom.

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Key Takeaways

- Consistent, Upstream Engagement Breaks Cycles of Poverty
True transformation happens when we move beyond treating symptoms and address root causes. By listening to local leaders and going upstream—supporting education, empowering families, and building local capacity—we help communities break generational cycles of poverty. This approach requires patience, humility, and a willingness to learn from those we serve. [30:36]

- Humility is the Foundation for Lasting Impact
Humility positions us to see others as God sees them, to listen before acting, and to serve rather than control. Leaders like Jean-Alix and Rod exemplify this by choosing to remain in difficult places, not for their own comfort, but for the sake of others. Humility is not weakness; it is the strength to put others first and to trust God’s purposes above our own. [36:51]

- Empathy and Compassion Must Lead to Action
Empathy allows us to see ourselves in others, recognizing the Imago Dei in every person. Compassion takes that empathy and moves it into tangible action—meeting needs, empowering others, and standing in solidarity. The gospel calls us not just to feel, but to act, even when it’s costly or inconvenient. [53:22]

- Sustainable Change is Rooted in Local Leadership and Partnership
Lasting solutions come from within communities, not from outsiders imposing their ideas. By empowering local leaders and partnering with them, we honor their knowledge, dignity, and vision. Our role is to support, not to save, and to walk alongside those God has called to lead in their own context. [36:51]

- Generosity Flows from a Heart Clothed in Compassion
Giving—whether time, resources, or presence—matters most when it comes from a heart transformed by humility and compassion. When we remember our “why” and see the big picture, we are able to persevere through challenges and make a real difference. Every act of generosity, no matter the size, is multiplied in God’s hands for the sake of His kingdom. [55:00]

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Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[30:36] - The Mission: Breaking Generational Poverty
[31:30] - Learning from Local Leaders
[33:27] - The Power of School Feeding Programs
[34:47] - Empowering Families Through Business
[36:51] - The Centrality of Local Leadership
[40:24] - Christ’s Example of Humility
[41:16] - Jean-Alix: Serving in Crisis
[43:13] - Choosing Service Over Comfort
[44:10] - Rod’s Story: Ministry in the Dominican Republic
[49:52] - Meeting Needs Through Humble Presence
[53:22] - Seeing the Imago Dei in Others
[55:00] - Compassion that Perseveres
[01:00:09] - Addressing Trafficking in Peru
[01:03:00] - Invitation to Generosity and Partnership

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Humility, Compassion, and Lasting Change

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### Bible Reading

Philippians 2:3-8 (ESV)
> Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Genesis 1:27 (ESV)
> So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Philippians 2:3-8, what specific actions or attitudes does Paul say should mark our relationships with others?
2. In the sermon, what were some of the “upstream” solutions that local leaders identified as ways to break cycles of poverty? [[33:27]]
3. How does the sermon describe the difference between material poverty and other forms of poverty, such as spiritual or relational poverty? [[34:47]]
4. What does it mean that every person is made in the image of God, according to Genesis 1:27 and the sermon’s explanation? [[53:22]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Paul connect humility with looking to the interests of others in Philippians 2? How does this relate to the examples of local leaders given in the sermon? [[40:24]]
2. The sermon says that humility is the foundation for lasting impact. Why might humility be more effective than coming in with our own solutions or ideas? [[36:51]]
3. The sermon talks about “empathy” and “compassion” leading to action. What is the difference between feeling empathy and actually acting with compassion? [[53:22]]
4. The sermon mentions that poverty is not just about money or resources. How might spiritual or relational poverty show up in our own lives or communities? [[34:47]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenges us to “walk in humility” and see the image of God in every person. Is there someone in your life or community you find it hard to see this way? What would it look like to approach them with humility this week? [[53:22]]
2. Think about a time when you wanted to help someone or solve a problem quickly. How might listening first, as the sermon suggests, change the way you respond? [[33:27]]
3. The leaders in the sermon chose to stay and serve in difficult places, even when they could have chosen comfort. Is there a situation where you are being called to serve or stay, even though it’s hard? What’s holding you back? [[41:16]]
4. The sermon says that “compassion moves us to act.” What is one specific, tangible way you can show compassion to someone in need this week—whether through time, resources, or presence? [[55:00]]
5. The sermon talks about “going upstream” to address root causes, not just symptoms. Are there areas in your life, family, or community where you tend to focus on quick fixes instead of deeper solutions? What might it look like to go upstream? [[33:27]]
6. The idea of partnership and empowering local leaders is central to the sermon. In your own life, are there ways you can support or empower others, rather than trying to “save” or control? [[36:51]]
7. The sermon invites us to generosity, whether big or small. What is one step you can take this week to give—of your time, resources, or encouragement—to support someone else’s growth or well-being? [[55:00]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to give you a heart of humility, eyes to see His image in others, and the courage to act with compassion in your daily life.

Devotional

Day 1: Humility as the Foundation for Service
True humility positions us to serve others selflessly.

Philippians 2:3-8 (ESV)
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Description:
Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. It is the posture that allows us to see beyond our own needs and ambitions, opening our eyes to the needs of those around us. When we approach life and ministry with humility, we are able to recognize the value and dignity in every person, regardless of their background or circumstances. This Christlike humility is the foundation for meaningful service, as it compels us to put others first and to act not out of selfish ambition, but out of genuine love and care. [40:24]

Reflection:
Where in your life do you need to intentionally adopt a posture of humility so you can better see and serve the needs of those around you today?



Day 2: Seeing the Image of God in Others
Every person is created in the image of God, deserving dignity.

Genesis 1:27 (ESV)
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

Description:
Recognizing the Imago Dei—the image of God—in every person transforms the way we relate to others. It means that no matter someone’s background, beliefs, or circumstances, their primary identity is as a beloved creation of God. This understanding breaks down barriers of prejudice and indifference, inviting us to see our neighbors, even those very different from us, as equals and as worthy of respect and compassion. When we truly see the image of God in others, empathy naturally follows, and our hearts are moved to care for and stand with them. [53:22]

Reflection:
Who is someone in your life you tend to overlook or judge? How can you intentionally see and honor the image of God in them today?



Day 3: Compassion Moves Us to Action
True compassion doesn’t stop at empathy but leads to tangible help.

James 2:15-17 (ESV)
If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

Description:
Compassion is more than feeling sympathy for someone’s suffering; it is empathy put into action. When we see the needs of others and are moved by compassion, we are compelled to do something practical to help. This might mean giving, serving, advocating, or simply being present. Compassionate action is what brings real change, both in the lives of those we serve and in our own hearts. It is the natural outflow of a humble and empathetic posture, and it is essential for breaking cycles of poverty, injustice, and isolation. [55:00]

Reflection:
What is one specific, practical way you can turn your compassion into action for someone in need this week?



Day 4: The Power of Consistent, Upstream Solutions
Long-term, upstream efforts address root causes and bring lasting change.

Galatians 6:9 (ESV)
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

Description:
Addressing the symptoms of poverty or brokenness is important, but real transformation happens when we go upstream to tackle root causes. This requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to listen and learn from those closest to the challenges. Consistent, long-term investment—like supporting education, empowering families, and building local leadership—brings sustainable change that outlasts quick fixes. Even when progress is slow or obstacles arise, staying the course and taking faithful steps forward can break cycles and create hope for generations. [33:27]

Reflection:
What is one area where you are tempted to settle for quick fixes? How can you commit to a more consistent, long-term approach to making a difference?



Day 5: Partnership and Empowerment Over Paternalism
True partnership means empowering local leaders and communities.

1 Corinthians 12:21-26 (ESV)
The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

Description:
Lasting impact comes not from outsiders imposing solutions, but from empowering local leaders who know their communities best. True partnership is marked by humility, mutual respect, and a willingness to listen and learn. It means coming alongside others, sharing resources and encouragement, and trusting them to lead the way. When we empower others rather than control or rescue, we honor their dignity and help build resilient, flourishing communities that reflect the unity and diversity of the body of Christ. [36:51]

Reflection:
How can you shift from a mindset of “helping” to one of true partnership and empowerment in your relationships or service this week?

Quotes

If we can actually help kids be in school, that lifts that one extra burden off of this mom who's got four kids. She knows my kids are safe at school. They're going to get a meal. And I can go out and try to hustle and earn a little bit of a living. [00:34:17] (15 seconds)  #EducationEmpowersFamilies Edit Clip

Our Ethiopian partner, Ashtalo, who Topher may talk more about, said, hey, actually, if we could help families launch small businesses, they could take care of themselves. And we said, that's a great idea. Why don't we do that? He said, well, it's a lot harder to raise money for families than it is for kids. And I'll tell you what, that's true. It's not impossible, but it is harder. [00:34:47] (22 seconds)  #EmpowerThroughEnterprise Edit Clip

We have our own forms of poverty, right? We may not be living in crushing material poverty, but we have spiritual poverty. We have relational poverty. I tell you what, you go to the developing world where you actually need your neighbor to survive, there's a depth of relationship there that I believe is gospel-centered and Christ-like, and I believe it's really rare in places where we can live our lives where we don't need a whole lot, right? [00:36:15] (28 seconds)  #SpiritualAndRelationalWealth Edit Clip

If you come in from the outside, like you have the answers and you know what needs to happen here, you're going to make probably more mistakes than good that you do. And so we've been able to find really incredible men and women who are called to serve their communities, and it's their communities. [00:37:05] (19 seconds)  #ServeWithHumility Edit Clip

The leaders we work with, they don't have to be where they are. They've found a way to rise above their, the common situation in their country, whether through education or business skills or whatever. They don't have to be where they are, but they choose to be where they are. So humility is definitely key. [00:38:41] (22 seconds)  #ChooseToStayAndServe Edit Clip

Empathy helps us see one another and even see ourselves in one another. And then compassion takes that and puts it into action. And so the fourth thing that I would say is key to all of our leaders is they're people of action. And so humility, empathy and compassion and action. [00:39:11] (21 seconds)  #CompassionInAction Edit Clip

When we see one another, that's empathy, right? I can see myself in you. I can see the image of God in you. I'm not any better. I'm not any worse. We're all created in the image of God. That's empathy. And then compassion takes empathy and says, oh, I see my brother or my sister hurting. I want to do something about that, right? And so it doesn't just stop at seeing them hurting and being like, oh, that's too bad. Thoughts and prayers, right? No, compassion puts that into action. [00:53:46] (33 seconds)  #EmpathySeesGodInAll Edit Clip

If you haven't started with humility and gotten to empathy and then gotten that clothed yourself in compassion, when you hit those challenges, when you hit those roadblocks, when it gets hard, when it gets messy, when it takes a long time, it's easier to quit, right? But if you're clothed in compassion, you remember your why. You remember what God has called you to. And you push through those barriers. [00:55:33] (25 seconds)  #CompassionDrivesAction Edit Clip

Their vision is way bigger than their own lifetimes even, right? And that's what we love at Help One Now is we're able to come in as an organization and help these leaders accomplish their vision in their communities now but also provide stability for the future because they're not all going to live forever, we're not all going to live forever, but the story that we're about is much bigger than that. [01:04:33] (24 seconds)  #LegacyBeyondLifetimes Edit Clip