Proverbs 3:27-28
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it”—when you have it with you.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The Hebrew word translated "due" literally means "owners" or "lords." This isn't just about paying debts; it's a profound reminder that what we have is not truly ours, but entrusted to us by God to care for those who truly "own" it by virtue of their need.
This passage isn't just about general kindness; it's a strong reminder that we're called to act with generosity, especially toward those in need, not just when it's easy but when we have the ability to do so. The verses immediately following warn against delaying help or making excuses, emphasizing that our resources are ultimately God's and we're accountable for how we use them.
The Bible talks about 'owners' and 'lords' when it comes to the good you possess. But it's not who you might think!
This verse uses the Hebrew word for 'owners' or 'lords' to describe those who are due good. While it can include rightful debts and restitution, the commentators emphasize a deeper truth: we are stewards of God's resources. What we have isn't ultimately ours; it's entrusted to us to manage and distribute, especially to those in need.
When the opportunity to do good presents itself, there's a critical element: 'when it is in your power.'
This verse isn't just about giving; it's about giving when you can and without delay. The phrase 'when it is in the power of thine hand' signifies having the ability, the means, and the opportunity.
Understand the original words
tob · Hebrew Noun
Actions, resources, or moral integrity that are beneficial, useful, or righteous. In this context, it refers to fulfilling obligations or showing kindness to others as part of living in obedience to God.
rea' · Hebrew Noun
Refers to an individual living in close proximity, a fellow member of the community. In Scripture, it emphasizes the responsibility to treat others with the same love and integrity one would desire for oneself.
Jesus speaks about accountability for what one has been given, directly connecting the amount of responsibility to the 'gifts' received. This echoes Proverbs' idea that what we possess isn't truly ours, but held in trust for others, especially the needy.
Galatians 6:10Paul urges believers to 'do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.' This parallels Proverbs' call to withhold not good, emphasizing timely action and the breadth of our obligations to others.
1 Timothy 6:17-19This passage instructs the wealthy not to be proud or trust in riches, but to be rich in good deeds and generous. It directly reflects the spirit of Proverbs 3:27, framing wealth as a means for good works and a way to lay up treasure in heaven.
James 2:15-16James directly connects a lack of practical help for those in need ('If a brother or sister is without clothes and in daily food...') with a void in their professed faith. This powerfully illustrates the 'due' mentioned in Proverbs – demonstrating genuine love means acting when we have the means.
bensonProverbs 3:27: "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it."
Proverbs 3:27-28 . Withhold not good — Do not deny it, but readily and cheerfully impart it; from them to whom it is due — Hebrew, מבעליו , literally, from the lords, or owners of it: which some refer to the restitution of goods gained unjustly; but the connection requires that we understand the clause in a more extensive sense. The good here spoken of must be considered as being appl…
clarkeProverbs 3:27: "Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it."
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due - מבעליו mibbealaiv, from the lords of it. But who are they? The poor. And what art thou, O rich man? Why, thou art a steward, to whom God has given substance that thou mayest divide with the poor. They are the right owners of every farthing thou hast to spare from thy own support, and that of thy family; and God has given the surplus for…
The Hebrew word translated "due" literally means "owners" or "lords." This isn't just about paying debts; it's a profound reminder that what we have is not truly ours, but entrusted to us by God to care for those who truly "own" it by virtue of their need.
This passage isn't just about general kindness; it's a strong reminder that we're called to act with generosity, especially toward those in need, not just when it's easy but when we have the ability to do so. The verses immediately following warn against delaying help or making excuses, emphasizing that our resources are ultimately God's and we're accountable for how we use them.
This passage isn't just about general kindness; it's a strong reminder that we're called to act with generosity, especially toward those in need, not just when it's easy but when we have the ability to do so. The verses immediately following warn against delaying help or making excuses, emphasizing that our resources are ultimately God's and we're accountable for how we use them.
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"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it”—when you have it with you." — The Hebrew word translated "due" literally means "owners" or "lords." This isn't just about paying debts; it's a profound reminder that what we have is not truly ours, but entrusted to us by God to c…
