Proverbs 3:27

¶ Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do [it].

Withhold {H4513} not good {H2896} from them to whom it is due {H1167}, when it is in the power {H410} of thine hand {H3027} to do {H6213} it.

Don't withhold good from someone entitled to it when you have in hand the power to do it.

Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act.

Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, When it is in the power of thy hand to do it.

Proverbs 3:27 delivers a powerful and direct ethical injunction, encouraging immediate and proactive benevolence. It is a cornerstone of practical wisdom within the book of Proverbs, urging believers to act charitably and justly without delay when they possess the means and opportunity.

Context

This verse is part of a broader section in Proverbs 3 (verses 21-35) that outlines the practical benefits and responsibilities of living a life guided by wisdom and understanding. The chapter begins by emphasizing trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5-6) and then transitions into concrete examples of how this wisdom manifests in daily interactions. Verse 27, along with the subsequent Proverbs 3:28 ("Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee."), forms a clear pair, directly addressing the sin of procrastination in doing good deeds and fulfilling obligations.

Key Themes

  • Proactive Benevolence: The verse is a strong call to action, urging individuals not merely to avoid harm but to actively seek opportunities to do good. It emphasizes an outward-focused generosity.
  • Timeliness: The phrase "when it is in the power of thine hand to do it" underscores the importance of acting promptly. Delaying good, especially when it is deserved or needed, is presented as a moral failing. This principle aligns with the idea that knowing what is right and failing to do it is sin (James 4:17).
  • Responsibility and Capability: It highlights the ethical responsibility that comes with having the means or ability ("in the power of thine hand") to help. If one has the capacity, there is an implicit obligation to use it for good.
  • Justice and Due: "To whom it is due" suggests that there are situations where good is not merely an act of charity but a matter of rightful expectation or justice, whether it's a debt, a promise, or a basic need that one has the power to meet.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "withhold" is mana (מָנַע), meaning to restrain, hold back, deny, or keep from. This emphasizes a deliberate act of non-giving. The "good" mentioned is tov (טוֹב), which encompasses not just moral goodness but also what is beneficial, pleasant, and prosperous. The phrase "in the power of thine hand" (בְּאֵל יָדֶךָ - b'el yadekha) literally means "in the strength of your hand" or "when your hand has power," clearly indicating capability, opportunity, and resources.

Practical Application

Proverbs 3:27 challenges us to consider our daily interactions and opportunities to serve. It encourages us to:

  • Be Prompt: Don't defer acts of kindness, help, or fulfilling commitments. If you can help someone now, do it.
  • Be Generous: Use your resources—whether financial, time, skills, or influence—to benefit others, especially those in need or to whom you have an obligation.
  • Fulfill Obligations: This could apply to repaying debts, keeping promises, or simply extending courtesy and support when appropriate.
  • Avoid Procrastination: The verse directly confronts the tendency to put off doing good, reminding us that the opportune moment may pass or the need may intensify. This principle resonates with Paul's admonition to do good to all people, especially fellow believers, as we have opportunity (Galatians 6:10).

Reflection

Proverbs 3:27 is a timeless call to active, timely, and responsible compassion. It teaches that true wisdom is not just about accumulating knowledge, but about applying it in practical ways that benefit others. By embracing this principle, we contribute to a more just and caring community, reflecting the very character of God who is abundant in goodness and mercy.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 6:10

    As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

  • James 2:15

    If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

  • James 2:16

    And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be [ye] warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what [doth it] profit?

  • Romans 13:7

    ¶ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

  • James 5:4

    Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.

  • Genesis 31:29

    It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt: but the God of your father spake unto me yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad.

  • Micah 2:1

    ¶ Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.
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