How Christians Should Respond to People Taking Advantage of Them
Published April 26th, 2019 (Modified April 29, 2020)
There is nothing wrong with being generous. In fact, as Catholics, it is strongly encouraged. But sometimes, people tend to take advantage of that generosity.
Every day, we see photos of homeless people sleeping on the cold pavement. Then there are also videos of beggars holding up signs saying they won’t accept anything lower than five bucks. You see a person who has cancer and in dire straits yet refused to ask for any help. Then you hear about a young couple putting up a GoFundMe page to be able to travel the world. Who among them would you help?
In those scenarios, it’s pretty obvious. But this is not always the case. Sometimes people can make you believe they are in need even when they aren’t. Then you help them only to realize you’ve been duped.
How do you know if someone is taking advantage of you?
We help people because they are in need. That should be your guiding rule. Know why they need the money and where they’ll use it. If they’ll use it to sustain a lifestyle they can’t afford, then clearly they don’t deserve it. Remember, we are not called to provide people’s wants but to assist each other in our needs.
But, isn’t it a sin to turn out those people who come to you for help?
The apostle Matthew says this:
“Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.” – Matthew 5:42
Yet another apostle, Paul, also has this to say:
“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:10
We are commanded to give to those who asks from us but we should not tolerate idleness and laziness. If we just give them money, they’ll get used to it. It won’t motivate them to work and better themselves. You might have helped them for now but you just made it worse for them in the long run.
If you’re still not sure whether someone deserves your help, this bible verse offers an advice:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” – James 1:5
What if you’ve already been taken advantage of?
No matter how pure your intentions are, there are still people who just don’t care. They’ll milk whatever they can out of you. And it’s these kind of people who makes us doubt charity.
If you happened to cross paths with this kind of people and fell prey to them, take solace in these words:
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ” – Romans 12:17-21
We should never think of nor seek for revenge. Instead, we pray for them that they may see the error of their ways. Let us continue doing good to others and even to those who have wronged us. Help those in need but exercise caution. Give but be careful who you give it to. Lastly, whatever you do, do it for the lord and not for men.
(Related: What’s the Difference Between a Christian and a Disciple?)
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About The Author
Judy Ponio is a professional writer for the Lay Cistercians blog and a devoted Catholic. She works hard to ensure her work uses accurate facts by cross checking reputable sources.
