S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Luke 6:30, 35-36 tells us to "give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back." "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in ret...

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July 01 2013 • 5 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College graduate and Dallas Seminary graduate

Balancing the act of helping others while ensuring we are not being taken advantage of is a nuanced endeavor. The Bible provides guidance on both extending compassion and establishing healthy boundaries. Here are two relevant verses from the New English Translation (NET) about helping others:

Galatians 6:2: "Carry one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This verse encourages us to support each other in times of need.

Galatians 6:5: "For each one will carry his own load." While we are called to help others, this verse emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility.

But again, we must set boundaries (my older daughter wisely tells me this often--any my wife):

Here are two more verses about that from the NET:

Setting Boundaries:

Proverbs 25:17: "Don't set foot too frequently in your neighbor's house, lest he become weary of you and hate you." This proverb advises moderation in our interactions to maintain healthy relationships. I practiced this with my best friends in high school -- two twin brothers.

Matthew 18:15: "If your brother sins, go and show him his fault when the two of you are alone. If he listens to you, you have regained your brother." Jesus teaches the importance of addressing issues directly to resolve conflicts.

In summary, the Bible encourages us to help others and be generous, but it also teaches the importance of setting boundaries and ensuring personal responsibility. By seeking wisdom and discernment, we can navigate the balance between offering assistance and protecting ourselves from potential exploitation.

3 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report