Recently, someone I would consider an enemy, (due to this person’s strong dislike of me), asked me for a favor. The favor was to lend them some money. Not a small amount either. You can imagine the shock that came over me while reading the text message. My initial thought was, “No you can’t have anything from me.” “This person had slandered my name, cursed me, and made fun of me in times of struggle. One time I was struggling to pay bills, and this person laughed at me and called me “poor.” So, for this person to text me and ask to borrow money from me – blew my mind! Giving to others who wronged you can be challenging.
I had more than enough to give, but I didn’t want to give it. Why would I want to help someone who openly mocked me in front of people while I was going through tough times? I thought to myself, “The audacity!” But then a verse came to mind and so did this question, “What would Jesus do?” I was not set on the WWJD option, but the Holy Spirit convicted me. Jesus is known for giving to others, so I thought it could be a test.
I sent the money to the person, but never said a word. After I sent the money, the person texted and said, “I didn’t think you would send it.” I was being tested after all, and not only by God. Four days later, I saw the verse that crossed my mind on a video. “Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,’ when you have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:28)
The verse before that one in Proverbs 3:27 says, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in the power of your hand to do so.” In my case, I don’t think verse 27 applies, but because of verse 28, I gave it without saying a word.
In Luke 6:33-35 Jesus says, “And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.”
Have you given to someone who has wronged you? Or has an enemy asked you for a favor, and you could help them, but you didn’t? Keep Luke 6:33-35 in mind. Jesus served his enemies. Giving to others whether they’ve wronged us or not, shows maturity and generosity. It also pleases God. Have a great week!