The Gate of Giving

“If there is a poor person among you, one of your brothers within any of your gates in the land the LORD your God is giving you, you must not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him enough for whatever need he has…Give to him, and don’t have a stingy heart when you give, and because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you do.” Deut. 15:7-10

This passage was an exhortation for Christians to give to others in need regardless of their ability to repay. Historically, the seventh year was considered the year of canceling debts. Any lent money in year one through six would be considered paid in full and reconciled at the beginning of year seven. This command was to loan in year six just as generously as year one, although the chances of repayment were less likely. The important principles in this passage are our obedience and the condition of our hearts.

Although this passage is based on financial support, we can take it to mean emotional, physical or spiritual support also. As Christians we are told that to follow Christ is to expect burdens and hardship. ‘You, however, know all about…my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings – what kinds of things happened to me…Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.’ 2 Tim. 3:10-12. Well, there you have it…our life when surrendered to Christ.

So it is no surprise that each of us at some point will be that beggar holding out our needy hands for something. Other times, we will be that person who can extend the provisions required to get others through their tough season.

The Lord our God has given each of us our own land in which we must seek provisions for ourselves and distribute to others in need. The gate opens both ways…we must be willing to come and go…to give and to receive. Like every other act of obedience... we will be blessed in all our work and in everything we do. It is the promise of our Guarantor.