This proverb makes a profound statement, revealing a wonderful principle in regard to giving. When we give to the poor, we are actually lending to God, and God Himself will reward us! As God’s children, we are to be like our heavenly Father, cultivating a selfless, giving nature by reaching out to others. This can be done in many ways such as tithing to our churches, giving offerings to ministries, and giving of ourselves by investing our gifts, talents, and time in others. Giving to the poor, however, is so near to God’s heart that when we do it, it is as if we are actually giving to God Himself!

God is holy, just and righteous. He is faithful to render to each of us according to what we do. If we lend to Him, we will never have to worry about Him paying us back. God is never indebted to anyone. If we give to the poor, our Lord will never fail to reward us. His rewards come back in many forms, such as money, if that is what we need. However, they can also come as healing, strength, protection, peace, love, etc. These rewards are greater than monetary compensation.

Another Scripture, Psalm 41:1-3, also promises reward when we give to the poor: “Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.”

The Lord promises that if we are considerate of the poor, He will deliver us in our time of trouble; He will protect us and keep us alive. He also promises us that we will not be given over to the desire of our enemies or those who hate us. If we are languishing with any kind of disease, He will heal us so we can get up and make our bed. What wonderful promises for the simple act of giving to the poor! As the saying goes, we cannot out-give God! He always rewards us with more than we gave!