Lending to Others

Are you hesitant to loan things?

Ever had a bad experience loaning something? Do you fear being taken advantage of again? Naturally, there are certain circumstances in which we need to set boundaries. However, personal attachment to the things of this life is contrary to Scripture. Anyone who loves the world and the things it offers more than they love God and His gifts doesn’t have the love of God abiding within. Lending grudgingly or refusing to share should be seen as a warning light by Christians. God may allow us to lose an item just to show us how much we love the things of this world. Demanding the replacement of items is another indicator of our attachment to things.

Jesus said, “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” That may be difficult to live by, but it’s not impossible, or Jesus would not have expected it of us. He can help us overcome greed, the attitude that makes us think our possessions belong to us. Even though we may work hard for what we have, the truth is that God has provided our material blessings. They’re all from Him, and it’s not a matter of ownership; it’s a matter of stewardship. When we see ourselves as managers instead of owners, we find freedom from fear and resentment. Being a good steward is miles apart from being a concerned owner. Recognize who your possessions really belong to and transfer ownership to Christ. Think of what you “own,” then turn it over to God and acknowledge Him as the true owner of it all.

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