He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given. Proverbs 19:17
The world needs more empathy, compassion, kindness, and love. The poverty rate is increasing day by day, and we read in the news that countries are breaking down and declaring that they are stumbling due to pandemics, economic crises, and a lack of water and food resources.
Scripture conveys deep concern for the needs of the poor. Lending to the poor is like lending to the Lord. The word “lends” hints that God will repay them. When we have abundance, giving is probably easy. However, when we already lack, giving could be challenging.
The widow at Zarephath in the Bible didn’t have enough resources to cook for her son as the brook dried up since there had been no rain in the land. But Elijah was sent to her by the Lord to supply him with food. She went away and did as Elijah had told her. When the woman decided to give out of what she had to meet the need of Elijah, God sent his provision to her, and they were satisfied with abundance, and their resources never dried till it rained.
Giving brings rewards (Matthew 10:42). On the other hand, the idea of “expecting something in return” or the attitude of “What’s in it for me?” isn’t true Christian giving. Here, God is assuring us not to be contemplating our needs and requirements when we lend to others, as those will be taken care of by Him.
Clinical research proved that when we help someone who is in need or give a gift, our brain secretes “feel-good” chemicals. Research shows that giving can boost your physical and mental health in numerous ways. It is evident that the act of giving brings life back. Giving brings us rewards!
