If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD–and he will repay you!
Proverbs 19:17
When I first read this verse I immediately thought, “Money. God wants me to give money to poor people.” After a little more ‘marinating’, if you will, I realized that people (especially Americans) are often poor in many things that have nothing to do with finances.
We’re poor in the area of love. Forgiveness. Community. Understanding. Fellowship. Communication. Affection.
The list really can go on forever.
So many times in relationships we hold back some part of ourselves because we’re afraid that the favor won’t be returned. He doesn’t take you on a date night because he doesn’t trust he’ll get that hug he desperately needs. She won’t forgive you for the affair because she doesn’t trust you won’t do it again.
No one wants to go first because we’re sure we’ll get screwed and left holding the bill. The thing is that God wants to see us bountiful in areas like love and compassion and forgiveness. When we’re able to extend a portion of who he is to others, especially our spouses, he is eager to repay you.
Go ahead and “go first”. It’ll be ok.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
This verse is so true. Over the past year I have been blessed by going to the Salvation Army once a month to serve the homeless in our fine city of San Diego. Each time I go there I don’t just serve food, but serve by listening to those who don’t have a voice. It has been an eye opener to say the least.
The experience has taught me a great lesson in my marriage as well. Listening is one of the most important things I can do in my marriage to show my wife that I love her.
Thanks for the great post.
Tony
Tony, thanks for such a great comment! Listening is such a powerful way to say I love you and You’re not alone. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with your wife and those you are serving at the homeless shelter.