Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.  Proverbs: 3:27, TLV

Do We Withhold Good?     Have you ever thought about those missed opportunities to do good? We may miss them because we’re too tired, too busy, or we’re just afraid it will create some lack for us. But there is another reason for a missed opportunity: we want to control the well-being of another—which, of course, is a form of manipulation.

Whether “good” is promised, deserved, or serendipitous, if our Father presents His will and opportunity we should follow through.

In this proverb, it’s all about what is due — or earned — to another person. If the “good” is due, when we’re able to do it, we must give it. Even if it’s inconvenient for us.

What If?

What if God withheld good from us only because He can or it was inconvenient for Him? He would never do that. Ever.

Whatever reason we feel He may withhold our request, it has nothing to do with whim or ill intent. It has everything to do with what is best for us. It’s His nature to bless. It should be ours as well.

Too Much?

Is it possible to give too much? To go overboard showering good on others? Yes.

When we step outside the realm of what the person is owed — such as a promise, wages, dues, time — we need to use wisdom and discernment. If we give out of emotion or guilt, we can deplete what God intends for ourselves or our family, or Him.

By walking in wisdom, by living Proverbs, we’ll have better insights into when, what, who, or if we’re to give a free-will “good.” Some call them boundaries. I like wisdom and discernment better. Don’t you?

Think More About It

How do you handle free-will good?

Until tomorrow, may we give “good” when it is due, and when God calls us to, my friends.

May ADONAI [the LORD] answer you in the day of trouble!
May the Name of the God of Jacob set you up securely on high.
May He send you help from the Sanctuary
and support you from Zion. Psalm 20:2-3, TLV

Agreeing with you in this prayer. Amen! God bless you!