Title

Giving To The Poor

Scripture
She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
(Proverbs 31:20)
Devotional
As it does with "Work," the Bible has much to say about generosity and giving to the poor. However, look closely to the words in this proverb of a virtuous woman. "She extends her hand" and "Reaches out." There is a great difference between almsgiving and giving a helping hand. Both are needed, but the latter is of a more lasting value. Yes we should give financially to the poor to assist them in their poverty. Nevertheless, giving financially to the poor seldom gets them out of their poverty—it more than often keeps them in their poverty. It is good to give both: financially for an immediate need and guidance for getting out of poverty. One takes money the other takes time. And the giving of time takes work, patience and compassion. The giving of money may clear the conscience; the giving of time may clear the poverty. Let us learn how to give and if ever impoverished, let us learn how to receive.