Bible verses for children
Care for people in need matters to God.
Proverbs 19:17
He who has pity on the poor lends to Yahweh; he will reward him.
Proverbs 19:17 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
The verse pictures helping a poor person as lending to God. This gives great dignity to care that might otherwise be overlooked. It is not a way to buy a reward; the person receiving help matters, rather than being a means to our own gain.
With an adult, choose a useful way to support someone in need. Ask what is actually helpful and avoid making them feel like a display.
Talk about it
How can you give in a way that respects the person receiving help?
A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
This proverb connects compassion for the poor with God’s concern and reward. Its lending picture honours generosity. It should not be turned into a promise of a particular financial return or pressure on families to give more than they can manage.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help us give with compassion and respect for each person. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.