How can we ensure we are not "withholding" from those in need? Refusing to Withhold: A Foundational Principle (Proverbs 3:27) “Do not withhold good from the needy when it is within your power to act.” God’s Word treats withholding help as disobedience rather than oversight. The command is clear: if you can relieve a need, do it. Look Outward: Identifying Real Needs • Notice those closest to you first—family, church, neighborhood (1 Timothy 5:8; Galatians 6:10). • Pay attention to people society often ignores—widows, orphans, refugees, the poor (Deuteronomy 24:19-21; James 1:27). • Recognize non-material needs: encouragement, time, skills, advocacy (Romans 12:13-15). Look Inward: Guarding the Heart Against Stinginess • Withholding often flows from fear or selfishness (Luke 12:15). • Ask the Spirit to grow compassion that moves to action (Ezekiel 36:26). • Confess any reluctance to give as sin and receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). Look Upward: Trusting God’s Provision • Open hands will not go empty (Proverbs 11:24-25; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Serving the needy serves Christ Himself (Matthew 25:35-40). • Confidence in the Father’s care frees you from anxiety about tomorrow (Matthew 6:31-33). Practical Steps Toward Open-Handed Living 1. Budget generosity first—set aside a percentage before any other spending (Proverbs 3:9). 2. Keep financial margin; avoid debt that stifles benevolence (Romans 13:8). 3. Obey promptly: when you meet a legitimate need you can meet, do it immediately (Proverbs 3:28). 4. Give personally when possible to nurture empathy (Acts 4:34-35). 5. Partner with trustworthy ministries for needs beyond your reach (Philippians 4:15-16). 6. Offer skills and time, not just money (1 Peter 4:10). Scripture-Based Motivation to Keep Giving • 1 John 3:17 — withholding contradicts God’s love. • James 2:15-17 — genuine faith meets practical needs. • Luke 3:11 — share surplus food and clothing. • Hebrews 13:16 — God is pleased with sharing. Summary Takeaways • Whenever you can help, withholding equals disobedience. • Generosity flows from seeing need, a heart changed by Christ, and trust in God’s provision. • Intentional, prompt, and cheerful giving keeps hands open and aligns the believer with the Savior who gave Himself without reserve. |
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