When Serving Neighbors Uncovers Greater Needs

When we step out to serve our neighbors, we often begin with a simple act of kindness—a service project, a meal, a repair, or practical help. Yet many times, as we serve, we uncover something deeper. The visible need is just the tip of the iceberg, and underneath it lies a greater need—often one that requires additional finances.

This is where love, wisdom, and discernment matter most.

Through Saturday Serve or a repair project, it becomes clear that money is part of what’s needed to move forward. These moments can feel uncomfortable, but they are also opportunities—to love well and to help wisely.

Then there will be the occasion where the church or you as an individual has someone  asking for dollars.  I’ve learned not to start with the money, but istead, start with a simple but important question, “Are you looking for help just for this immediate situation, or are you open to looking at ways to change your situation?”

Their response tells you a great deal.

Some people truly just need help in a crisis moment. Others are open—and even hopeful—for a path toward long-term change. Neither response is wrong, but the answer helps guide how we respond.

Dollars vs. Direction

If someone only wants dollars for the current issue, we can still serve with compassion while being mindful of boundaries. But if they express openness to change, that opens the door to something deeper—financial clarity, stewardship, and sustainable freedom.

That’s where transformation can begin.

When a Service Project Reveals Bigger Needs

During service projects, it’s common to uncover needs that go beyond what volunteers alone can handle. In these moments, it’s helpful to ask another gentle, empowering question:

“Would you be open to having me—or someone else—do a quick snapshot of your finances to see how much you might be able to contribute toward this project, and how much we could help raise through donations?”

This question does several important things:

• It honors the dignity of the individual.
• It invites ownership, not shame.
• It allows the community to come alongside wisely.
• It helps ensure resources are used in a way that supports long-term stability, not just short-term relief.

Serving with Both Compassion and Wisdom

True love doesn’t just fix what’s broken today—it helps prevent the same crisis tomorrow. When we combine service with honest conversation and practical financial insight, we move from charity alone to empowerment.

That’s what it means to thrive on purpose.

As we serve our neighbors, may we:

• See People beyond the immediate need
• Share Love through honest and respectful conversations
• Serve Neighbors in ways that lead to hope, healing, and lasting change

Because sometimes the greatest gift we can offer isn’t just financial help—it’s a pathway forward to financial freedom and debt free living.

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