Lending to the Lord

Did you know that you can lend to the Lord? Even though God created everything and it all really belongs to Him, we can still do something where we are lending to the Lord. Let's read.

Anyone who is kind to poor people lends to the Lord. God will reward him for what he has done.

Proverbs 19:17 (NIrV)

Discussion

• The word translated kind here is chanan which means "to be gracious, show favour, pity"
• The poor mentioned here dal are "low, poor, weak, thin, one who is low." This may include
  • People who are looked down on by most people
  • People who don't have enough money
  • People who don't have enough to eat
  • People who don't have homes to live in
  • Can you think of anyone else who might fit this category?
• What are some ways that you can be kind to the poor?
• The Hebrew word translated lend is lavah which in addition to meaning to lend can also mean "to join, be joined."
• Thus, if you are kind to the poor, you are lending to God and joining with God in being kind to the poor.
• Looking other translations of the second half, many say "repay" rather than "reward." Either way, it is clear that you won't be left lacking because you have been kind to the poor, but you will be at peace and be well taken care of.
• What are some ways that you are already blessed with more than you need? Toys, books?
• Can you think of ways that you can be kind to the poor in areas where you are rich?
• It looks like there will be many opportunities to do this through our church this holiday season. Do you think we should do one or more of these?