How does a bishop know who is in need?

Answer:

The bishop should know the temporal circumstances of his ward members and ensure that proper care and attention are given to those in need. It is not enough for him to respond only when asked for help. To serve effectively, he must seek out the poor. In this responsibility, he may be assisted by priesthood quorum leaders and Relief Society leaders, home teachers and visiting teachers.

One brother who served for many years as a bishop, recalls that he would occasionally drive or walk through the ward, looking at every home and thinking about those who lived there. Many times he was inspired to knock on a door where he knew of no difficulties, only to find that a person or family had been praying for help. Opening the door, they found their humble bishop there, ready to help them.