Benevolence in the Old Testament

[313 words] We all know that Jesus taught us to care for the poor and needy. Benevolence is to be an active part of every Christian’s life. However, giving to those in need is not only a New Testament practice. God has always required His people to care for the less fortunate. God required His people to care for those who fell on hard times. Deuteronomy 17:7-11 says that Hebrews were not to harden their hearts nor close their hands to the poor, rather give as the poor brother had need. In Leviticus 25:36, the Lord commanded, “If one of your brethren becomes poor, and falls into poverty among you, then you shall help him, like a stranger or a sojourner, that he may live with you.” Those who had fields of crops or vineyards were mandated to leave the corners of the fields unharvested to allow the poverty stricken…