What is the meaning of Proverbs 3:27? Do not withhold good The command is straightforward: if something is genuinely “good,” we are not free to keep it back. Scripture repeatedly calls the believer to active generosity—see Galatians 6:10, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone.” James 2:15-16 warns against the hypocrisy of merely wishing someone well while refusing practical help. The “good” can be tangible (money, food, shelter) or intangible (encouragement, time, advocacy). In each case the verse assumes we recognize the need and possess a suitable remedy. from the deserving The word “deserving” points to people who have a legitimate claim on our help—neighbors, employees, family members, brothers and sisters in Christ, even strangers God places in our path (Luke 10:30-37). It does not promote blind enablement; rather, it mirrors 1 Timothy 5:8, which ties obligation to recognized responsibility. By naming them “deserving,” Solomon reminds us that withholding would be an injustice, not mere stinginess. Our Lord’s teaching in Matthew 25:40 reinforces this: what we do “for one of the least of these brothers of Mine” He counts as done to Him. when it is within your power to act God never commands impossibilities. The verse assumes we have the resources or influence to make a difference—money in hand, a skill to share, a position to speak up, or simply time and energy. Acts 3:6 illustrates Peter giving what he had (“Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you”). Conversely, James 4:17 defines sin as “knowing the right thing to do and failing to do it.” Our capacity sets our responsibility: the greater the ability, the greater the accountability (Luke 12:48). summary Proverbs 3:27 calls believers to prompt, practical, and proportional generosity. When God makes us aware of a need belonging to someone with a rightful claim, and we possess the means to meet it, we must not delay or withhold. In doing so we reflect the character of our heavenly Father, who never withholds any good thing from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11). |
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