God Repays
Giving to the poor out of pity and compassion is a loan to the Lord, and He promises to repay us better than gold and silver.
The preacher discusses the concept of disputing, emphasizing the negative impact of complaining and arguing within the body of Christ, which can lead to disruption and arrogance. By focusing on humility and avoiding disputes, believers can demonstrate blameless conduct and innocent character, shining as lights in a dark and perverse world. The sermon highlights the importance of maintaining a positive testimony through joyful living and refraining from murmuring and contentious behavior.
Text
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again. (Proverbs 19:17)
We are to give to the poor out of pity. Not to be seen and applauded, much less to get influence over them; but out of pure sympathy and compassion we must give them help.
We must not expect to get anything back from the poor, not even gratitude; but we should regard what we have done as a loan to the Lord. He undertakes the obligation, and, if we look to Him in the matter, we must not look to the second party. What an honor the Lord bestows upon us when He condescends to borrow of us! That merchant is greatly favored who has the Lord on his books. It would seem a pity to have such a name down for a paltry pittance; let us make it a heavy amount. The next needy man that comes this way, let us help him.
As for repayment, we can hardly think of it, and yet here is the Lord's note of hand. Blessed be His name, His promise to pay is better than gold and silver. Are we running a little short through the depression of the times? We may venture humbly to present this bill at the bank of faith, Has any one of our readers [oppressed] the poor? Poor soul. May the Lord forgive him.
Sermon Outline
- Giving to the Poor points: - Out of pity and compassion - Not for personal gain or influence
- Regard it as a loan to the Lord points: - He undertakes the obligation - Do not look to the second party for repayment
- The Lord's promise to pay points: - Better than gold and silver - Faith is the bank where we can present our bill
Key Quotes
“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“What an honor the Lord bestows upon us when He condescends to borrow of us!” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Blessed be His name, His promise to pay is better than gold and silver.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Give to the poor out of pity and compassion, not for personal gain or influence.
- Regard what you have done as a loan to the Lord, and do not look to the second party for repayment.
- When facing financial struggles, present your bill to the bank of faith, where the Lord's promise to pay is better than gold and silver.