Something happened to me today…not a bad something, just a something. And it has me asking some questions that I don’t know the answers to and get conflicting answers from others. So, I am asking you…which may be all of 7 people, but I’m asking.
What do you do when you’ve helped someone and they ask for more? Is there ever a point when you stop helping someone in need? Is there a such thing as too much? If so, when or what is that point? Does it make a difference if the person is a friend or some random person who stopped you on the street? Is it okay to put your own family before the needs of someone who has nothing? Does it matter if you think they are lying?
I wrote that I don’t know the answers. Maybe I do know some of them. God has told us to take care of those who need taking care of….punto. (Period) So, does that answer all the questions above?
What do you think? I’d like to know.
MacKenzie M Davidson 
To me it matters if someone is lying. I am not sure if this is right or wrong, but lying gets to me. I also think that prolonged help can turn into dependence. When that happens, it is no longer just help; its a problem. Helping someone doesn't mean you have decided to support them forever.
On the other hand, my husband always gives ME this advice: If you decide to help someone; help them. Don't get caught up in whether they are lying or not. He says I should help them in the way that I can and then it is up to them. If they lie or buy drugs or whatever, it is their problem not mine. (I don't exactly see it that way) but just another perspective.
i think it is a situation by situation thing. and, the last paragraph of brooke's comment is what i usually go by. but, at the same time, esp. if you have more than one exposure to the person, you will start to know whether they are lying or not. and, of course God can give you supernatural insight in the situation too.
i always try to involve my kids/family in the help we are trying to provide. we always, always talk about it all. but, if the help is starting to disrupt our family life and our peace, it has to be altered. nothing, not even the worst of situations, comes before family…ministry (help) comes after family…punto. š as we involve the whole family in this way of life (helping), the helping most likely will not disrupt the family. but, at any point where we sense that it is disrupting or that things are getting out of balance, a non-peace will show up and be your alarm. time to alter.
ok, so those are my thoughts. enjoy your last little bit as a foreigner. š
Thank for all the comments. It does me some different perspectives.
give…it does give me some different perspectives