📖 Matthew 5:42 (ESV):
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“Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.”
This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, where He teaches a radically generous and forgiving attitude, one that reflects God’s grace. It encourages open-handed kindness, not selfishness or revenge.
But what if someone abuses this?
“What if a person repeatedly borrows but never repays?”
Biblical Wisdom is not Blind Generosity
The Bible also teaches wisdom, stewardship, and accountability. Here are other principles to consider:
1. Be Generous, But Also Wise
Proverbs 22:3 says:
“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.”
God wants us to be discerning, not gullible.
If someone continually abuses your kindness, helping them the same way may no longer be helpful, but enabling sin.
2. Confront and Correct in Love
Luke 17:3:
“If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.”
You can lovingly confront the borrower. Set clear expectations:
“I want to help, but I need you to honor your commitment to pay back what you borrowed.”
3. Boundaries are Biblical
Even Jesus walked away from people who had wrong motives (John 6:15).
You are not required to say yes to everyone always, especially if it causes harm, strain, or injustice.
4. Giving is not always about money
You can still help in other ways:
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Give advice,
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Offer food or short-term help,
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Help them find a job or financial planning,
Instead of giving money directly.
Summary Answer:
Matthew 5:42 still applies, but not as a command to be abused or manipulated.
You are called to be generous — with wisdom, love, and boundaries.
Helping others must also lead to growth, repentance, and responsibility — not just endless giving.
Prayer Thought:
“Lord, help me to be generous like You, but also wise. Teach me when to give and when to say no in love.”
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