When we can do good for someone who needs it, we should not put it off.
“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 (KJV)
What does “Withhold not good” mean in Proverbs 3:27?
The proverb speaks of good that is due to someone, meaning help they deserve or need. The key phrase is when it is in the power of thine hand to do it, which means we should act when we are able.
Going deeper
The proverb is direct: Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. If we have the ability and the opportunity to help, we should not hold back. Often we know what would help, a payment, a ride, a word, and we delay or make excuses. The proverb says that if it is within your power, do it. Good delayed is often good denied.
Ask yourself where you have been holding back something good that you could give. It might be an overdue thank-you, a bill you could pay for someone, a visit you keep postponing, or an apology you owe. Do it today, or set a definite time this week. The next verse warns against saying, come back tomorrow, when the help is available now. Let this be a day of acting on the good you know to do.
Reflect
What good have you been putting off that you could do today?
Pray
Lord, help me not to withhold good from those who need it. Show me what is in the power of my hand, and give me courage to do it now. In Jesus' name, amen.
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