Q 114: How do the redeemed of the Lord provide generously for those in need?

A 114: The redeemed of the Lord provide generously for those in need by giving of their resources, providing opportunities for work, and not charging interest on loans between members of the community of faith. (Deut. 15.11; Lev. 19.33, 34; Lev. 19.9, 10; Deut. 23.19, 20)

Doing unto others as we would have them do unto us extends to all our neighbors, including those who are in need. How would we want to be treated when circumstances have conspired to leave us in a condition of want? This is how we must act toward others. There are, of course, mitigating circumstances. They are not poor, for example, who simply refuse to work, and expect their neighbors to take care of them. And in making loans it is not unlawful to charge a fee to cover the opportunity costs which loaned money forfeits, even if it’s less than a percentage point in a savings account. But we must not take advantage of our neighbors in their times of need; rather, we must consider how we would want to be treated, and what we might do to reflect the love of God to those in need.

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