Charity: The Foundation of Christian Love and Service

Charity is both an attitude and an activity, reflecting the very nature of God Himself in how we care for others.

The Divine Nature of Charity

Charity (also called love) is the essential foundation for all Christian action. Without it, any other activity is defective and substandard (1 Cor 13:1-8). It should be the motivating force of everything we do as it reflects the nature of God Himself (Gal 5:22; Eph 2:4; 1 Jn 4:8). The Bible's message is clear: "Do everything in love [with charity]...loving one another deeply" (1 Cor 16:14).

Practical Expression of Christian Charity

Charity involves being kind to the poor—not closing our eyes to their need, but actively helping them in their plight (Prov 19:17, 28:27, 31:8,9). This practical sacrificial love reaches out to help and care for those in need, willingly and generously, doing to others what we would like done to us if we were in their situation—without drawing attention to ourselves (Mt 6:1-4, 25:35-45; Mk 12:31; Act 4:32-35, 10:2,4, 11:27-30).

Give generously and wisely

Wisdom in Giving and Receiving

When we care for someone in need, we do the will of Christ. As much as possible, these actions should not create dependency or become mere handouts, rather a hand-up so the recipient can become self-sufficient. Perhaps one day we will be on the receiving end, and the Bible teaches that we will receive in proportion to what we have given (Lk 6:38; Rom 15:26,27; 2 Cor 8:14, 9:6; Gal 6:7). "Freely you have received, freely give"—follow God's generous example who graciously gave us all things (Mt 10:8; Rom 8:32; 2 Pet 1:3).

The Bible asks if we see another person in need and we fail to help when we can, how can the love of God be in us? (1 Jn 3:17,18). Expressed another way, faith without accompanying actions is worthless (Jas 2:14-17). Our care for the needy is a reflection of our love for Christ and our position as His children, serving as evidence of our salvation and the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. While there is an infinite number of genuine needs around us, we are to exercise wisdom and discernment, seeking God's direction in which to give. Being good stewards of what God has given us means ensuring resources are used properly. He has not only provided for us but desires that we reach out and minister to others.

Reflection and Application:

Consider how your actions reflect the charitable nature of God in your daily interactions with others.
Evaluate whether your giving creates dependency or empowers recipients toward self-sufficiency.
Reflect on times you've helped others without seeking recognition or praise.
Pray for wisdom in discerning genuine needs and exercising good stewardship of your resources.