Why Should We Help The Poor?

In biblical times, generosity was more than just giving money; it also meant showing mercy and compassion. This teaches us that practicing righteousness through generosity reflects God’s character and His concern for all people. Proverbs 14:31 emphasizes this connection: 

Helping the poor is a reflection of God’s character. The Bible describes God as compassionate, gracious, and merciful and calls us to embody these attributes. Psalm 82:3-4 instructs us to "Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked." Through our generosity, we demonstrate God’s love and justice to the world.

The Complexity of Poverty Alleviation

To avoid harmful giving, they recommend:

• Avoiding handouts that create dependency.
• Developing supportive relationships with those being helped.
• Being cautious about providing goods that can be sourced locally, which could undermine local businesses.
• Encouraging individuals to use their gifts and abilities.
• Focusing on long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.

Understanding the full complexity of poverty allows Christians to help in ways that promote dignity, sustainability, and genuine transformation.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I have a grandson who will be a senior this year and is going to an expensive aviation school for flight school. I would love to help him and pay for the whole thing if necessary, but I don't want just to give him the money. How do I balance helping him financially while also having him work for it and not creating dependency?
• I currently have a mortgage of about $20,000, and I want to move to a different location. Would it be a good idea for me to get another loan to purchase a new home, or would it be better to pay off the first mortgage before moving?
• I'm 29 and recently came to know Jesus with my wife. I've had a high income but wasted it in the past. Now, I want to set up retirement savings for my family. What would be a good route for me, like IRAs or 401(k)s? And can I have confidence in putting my money in a bank long-term?

Resources Mentioned:

• The Chalmers Center
• When Helping Hurts: How To Alleviate Poverty without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)
• FaithFi App