Proverbs 3:27-28
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The Hebrew word for "owners" here carries a profound meaning: it suggests that those in need are not just recipients of our charity, but rightful claimants to a portion of what we possess. This verse reminds us that our resources are not solely ours, but are entrusted to us by God for the benefit of others, particularly the poor and needy.
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)
This verse sits within a section of Proverbs that contrasts the wise, God-fearing life with folly. It follows direct commands about trusting the Lord and honoring Him with possessions, and it precedes a warning against envying evildoers. The focus here is on actively doing good, specifically not delaying help to those who have a rightful claim to it, whether by justice or by need, when you have the ability to give.
The Bible says you should give to the poor. But who are these 'owners' of your money, and what does it mean for them to be 'due' your generosity?
This verse challenges our modern idea of absolute ownership. The Hebrew word for 'due' here literally means 'its owners' or 'its lords.' This isn't just about paying debts; it's a profound shift in perspective.
Stewards, Not Sovereigns
Is there a difference between delaying a gift and refusing it? This verse says 'yes,' and the consequences are serious.
Proverbs isn't just about what we should do, but also about the when. This verse, by its placement and wording, emphasizes prompt action.
No Room for Delay
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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.
This passage echoes Proverbs 3:27 by urging believers to 'do good to all,' especially those in need, emphasizing the importance of timely action when opportunities arise.
Luke 12:48Jesus' teaching here highlights accountability for what we've been given, directly relating to Proverbs 3:27's call to use our resources for good when we have the ability, as much will be expected from those to whom much is given.
James 2:15-16This passage forcefully illustrates the consequence of withholding 'good' (practical help) from those in need, directly connecting to Proverbs 3:27's admonition against neglecting our duty when we are able to assist.
1 Peter 4:10Peter reminds us that we are stewards of God's grace, a concept that deeply informs Proverbs 3:27. Our 'good' is not truly ours to hoard, but to be used in service to others.
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 for "owners" here carries a profound meaning: it suggests that those in need are not just recipients of our charity, but rightful claimants to a portion of what we possess. This verse reminds us that our resources are not solely ours, but are entrusted to us by God for the benefit of others, particularly the poor and needy.
This verse sits within a section of Proverbs that contrasts the wise, God-fearing life with folly. It follows direct commands about trusting the Lord and honoring Him with possessions, and it precedes a warning against envying evildoers. The focus here is on actively doing good, specifically not delaying help to those who have a rightful claim to it, whether by justice or by need, when you have the ability to give.
This verse sits within a section of Proverbs that contrasts the wise, God-fearing life with folly. It follows direct commands about trusting the Lord and honoring Him with possessions, and it precedes a warning against envying evildoers. The focus here is on actively doing good, specifically not delaying help to those who have a rightful claim to it, whether by justice or by need, when you have the ability to give.
"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 for "owners" here carries a profound meaning: it suggests that those in need are not just recipients of our charity, but rightful claimants to a portion of what we possess. This verse…
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Last reviewed October 2026
