Be Wise

Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.              Matthew 5:42 NLT

How many times have you seen someone and say, “Oh my! Not again! Every time this individual sees me it’s an opportunity to get something from me. I’m not an ATM; I’m not the grocery store.” And you have a list of the “I’m not.”  So how do we apply this verse in our lives? Do we literally give to everyone? Or do we need to exercise wisdom?

I believe that wisdom is needed in the way we live out this verse. We should not give money to those who want to use our money to purchase items to hurt themselves; instead we can purchase the items they need like food and clothes and donate these items to them. Proverbs 11:25 says, “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” Giving also benefits the giver.

If someone wants to borrow, give according to your means because you might never see that given as a loan again. David says in Psalm 37:21, “The wicked borrow and never repay.” Proverbs 22:7 says, “Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.” So if possible, as much as you can, try to limit your loans because when you limit your loans, you protect your heirs. Your heirs get paid after your debts are settled.

Ask God for wisdom in the area of giving especially to those who are repeatedly asking. And do all in your power to be the lender and not the borrower.

Thought for Today: Use wisdom in giving, lending and borrowing

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.