Jesus commands a posture of open-handed availability: do not turn away from genuine need when it meets you. The command targets the reflex of self-protection — finding reasons why this request doesn’t qualify — and calls His followers to costly, inconvenient generosity with time, money, and help.
Matthew 5:42 KJV“Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.”
Read Matthew 5 →
Jesus says don't turn away the person who asks. The command is about availability and the posture of an open hand — not closing yourself off to need when it shows up. This is costly and inconvenient by nature. How do you actually respond when someone asks something of you — time, money, help, attention? Do you give, or do you find reasons why this particular request doesn't qualify?
Give to the one who asks. When someone asks you for something today — time, money, help, a loan — give it. Don't question their worthiness, don't impose conditions, don't hesitate. Open your hand. The command is about your posture when need shows up: available, not closed off. You know how you typically respond when asked. Stop finding reasons this request doesn't count. Give.
When you give to the one who asks, you mirror the Father's open-handed generosity. This obedience reveals His character of impartial compassion. You offer a glimpse of His love — abundant, available, unearned. As you give without conditions, you draw near to the One who gives to all freely.
This is one of 69 direct commands of Jesus in the free Red Letter Challenge: All Commands of Jesus — The Living Sword
Read every Scripture in your chosen translation (WEB, KJV, Geneva, YLT, and more) at https://www.thelivingsword.org/red-letter-challenge/give-to-those-who-ask