How does Proverbs 3:28 connect with the Good Samaritan parable? Two Passages, One Heartbeat of Compassion - Proverbs 3:28: “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I will give it,’ when you already have it with you.” - Luke 10:33-34: “But when a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, he saw him and had compassion. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine.” Both texts champion immediate, tangible mercy. Proverbs voices the principle; Jesus’ parable shows it in action. What Proverbs 3:28 Commands • “Do not say…” – A direct prohibition against postponing help. • “When you already have it with you” – Stewardship is assumed; what God places in our hands is for the good of others (cf. 1 Chronicles 29:14). • Implication: Delayed generosity can become practical cruelty. How the Samaritan Embodies the Proverb • He notices—no shrugging off or walking around (contrast priest and Levite, Luke 10:31-32). • He acts with what he has on hand—oil, wine, bandages, a beast of burden. • He gives immediately—no, “Come back tomorrow.” • He goes the extra mile—pays the innkeeper and promises to settle any future cost (Luke 10:35). Shared Themes 1. Neighbor-Centered Love – Both passages broaden “neighbor” to anyone in need (see also Leviticus 19:18). 2. Urgency of Compassion – Mercy delayed can feel like mercy denied (cf. James 2:15-16). 3. Stewardship of Resources – We are conduits, not reservoirs (2 Corinthians 9:8-11). 4. Integrity in Action – Love proves itself by deeds (1 John 3:17-18). Living the Connection Today • Keep eyes open: ask the Spirit to heighten awareness of immediate needs around you. • Hold resources loosely: time, skills, possessions—all belong to Jesus (Psalm 24:1). • Act without procrastination: if you can help now, help now (Galatians 6:10). • Trust God to replenish: generosity is met with His sufficiency (Proverbs 11:25; Philippians 4:19). Bottom Line Proverbs 3:28 lays down the rule; the Good Samaritan illustrates the rule. Both urge believers to translate compassion from good intentions into swift, concrete action—because love delayed can never rescue a broken traveler lying on the roadside. |
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