1. Start with Genuine Encouragement

Sometimes, a person repeatedly reaches out because they crave support and affirmation. A simple word of encouragement can make all the difference before you address their actual request. “Encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). By beginning with kindness, you open the door for honest communication.

2. Offer to Pray With Them

When they ask for favor after favor, it might reveal deeper concerns. Offering to pray with or for them can acknowledge both your support and your boundaries. “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). A heartfelt, brief prayer can show you care about their well-being, rather than simply agreeing to everything.

3. Ask What They Truly Need

People sometimes seek help without fully understanding their own needs. By asking them clarifying questions, you ensure the favor is truly necessary. “Let each of you look not only to your own interests” (Philippians 2:4). This approach balances empathy with responsibility.

4. Suggest Creative Solutions

If you can’t fulfill the favor directly, propose another way. Perhaps they can reach out to a friend or find a community resource. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God” (James 1:5). Brainstorming helpful alternatives can keep you from burning out.

5. Be Clear About Your Limits

It’s good to help, but it’s also wise to maintain healthy boundaries. “Do not grow weary in well-doing” (2 Thessalonians 3:13). When you’re transparent about your limitations, you can protect your energy for the moments God truly wants you to step in and serve.

6. Invite Them to Give Back

Kindness is a two-way street. Suggest ways they can reciprocate, even with small gestures. “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). This can help them appreciate that helping one another is a shared responsibility.

7. Offer Compassion Without Guilt

Sometimes you must say no, and that can feel uncomfortable. But remember, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving from a place of love—rather than obligation—keeps relationships healthy and guilt-free, even if you must decline.

8. Point Them toward Growth

Encourage them to develop their own solutions when possible. The process of seeking independent solutions can strengthen their character. “In view of this, make every effort to add to your faith virtue” (2 Peter 1:5). Encourage them to build new skills and lean on God’s guidance.

9. Frame Your “No” as a Loving Choice

If you can’t help at the moment, phrase it in a way that emphasizes you care. “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). Making it clear that you value them but must protect your own responsibilities can preserve the friendship.

10. Keep Serving with a Joyful Heart

Though you maintain boundaries, stay open and positive. Let your caring attitude be evident each time you interact. “Use whatever gift you have received to serve one another” (1 Peter 4:10). Even when you say no to a request, keep a posture of service and grace, trusting that your example can reflect deeper hope to them.