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What Does the Bible Say About Giving Money to Family? – Viral Believer
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What Does the Bible Say About Giving Money to Family?

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Introduction

As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of our resources and to care for those around us, especially our family members.

However, when it comes to giving money to family members in need, it can be challenging to navigate the balance between helping and enabling unhealthy patterns or neglecting our own financial responsibilities.

In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible says about giving money to family members and how we can approach these situations in a way that honors God.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for our family members. In 1 Timothy 5:8, Paul writes, “But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

This verse makes it clear that as Christians, we have a responsibility to care for our family members, both physically and financially. However, it’s important to note that this does not mean we should give our family members unlimited financial support without discernment.

When it comes to giving money to family members, discernment is key. It’s important to pray for wisdom and seek guidance from trusted mentors or church leaders. We must also assess the need of the person requesting financial assistance and consider if it is a true need or a want.

Additionally, we should be mindful of our own financial situation and not give more than we can afford. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into what the Bible says about giving money to family members and provide guidance on how to approach these situations in a way that aligns with God’s will.

giving to family members in the Bible

The Importance of Caring for Our Family

The Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for our family members. In 1 Timothy 5:8, Paul writes, “But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

This verse makes it clear that as Christians, we have a responsibility to care for our family members, both physically and financially. This is also reflected in the Ten Commandments, where we are commanded to honor our parents (Exodus 20:12).

The Bible tells us that we should not neglect our family. In Mark 7:10-13, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for using the Corban tradition to avoid helping their parents financially.

He says,

“For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)— then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

Jesus is saying that we cannot use traditions or excuses to avoid caring for our parents. Instead, we must prioritize our family responsibilities.

However, it’s important to note that this does not mean we should give our family members unlimited financial support without discernment.

In Proverbs 21:20, it says, “There is desirable treasure, and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man squanders it.” We are called to be wise with our resources and not enable destructive behavior.

Discernment in Giving

When it comes to giving money to family members, discernment is key. It’s important to pray for wisdom and seek guidance from trusted mentors or church leaders.

Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Seeking counsel from others can help us gain perspective and make wise decisions.

We must also assess the need of the person requesting financial assistance. We should look into their reasons for needing the financial help and consider if it is a true need or a want.

The Bible speaks about the importance of diligence and hard work, and we must consider if the person is making efforts to help themselves. In Proverbs 10:4, it says, “A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.”

We should not be quick to enable laziness and must encourage our family members to take responsibility for their own lives.

It’s also important to consider our own financial responsibilities. In 1 Timothy 5:4, Paul writes, “But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God.”

This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing our own family responsibilities before giving to others. We must ensure that we are taking care of our own needs and obligations before extending help to others.

Additionally, we should be mindful of our own financial situation and not give more than we can afford. The Bible teaches us to be content with what we have and to not compare ourselves to others.

In Philippians 4:11-12, Paul writes, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.”

We must have a humble attitude and not give out of a desire to impress others or to gain recognition.

Addressing Unhealthy Patterns

Another factor to consider when giving money to family members is whether or not we are enabling unhealthy patterns. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10, Paul writes, “For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and the need for individuals to work and provide for themselves. If we continually give money to family members who are capable of working but choose not to, we may be enabling laziness and discouraging personal responsibility.

It’s important to address any unhealthy patterns and encourage our family members to take responsibility for their own lives. This may mean having difficult conversations or setting boundaries, but ultimately it is for their benefit.

We should also be mindful of how our giving may affect the dynamics of our relationship with our family members. In some cases, giving money to family members can create tension or resentment, especially if it is not given with a pure heart.

In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Our giving should come from a place of love and generosity, rather than obligation or guilt.

Seeking God’s Guidance

Ultimately, our approach to giving money to family members should be guided by our relationship with God. We must seek His wisdom and guidance in these situations.

In James 1:5, it says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Through prayer and seeking God’s Word, we can gain clarity and discernment in how to approach these situations.

It’s also important to remember that our ultimate goal as Christians is to point others to Christ. In Colossians 3:17, it says, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Our giving should be an expression of our faith and a way to show God’s love to others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for our family members, but it also calls us to be wise and discerning in how we use our resources. Giving money to family members should be done with prayer, discernment, and guidance from others.

We must also consider our own financial responsibilities and ensure that we are not enabling unhealthy patterns. As we navigate these situations, let us seek to honor God and show love to our family members in a way that is both responsible and compassionate.

As it says in Proverbs 3:9-10, “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.” Let us honor God with our resources and use them in a way that brings glory to Him.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.