One of the worst experiences I had was at the age of 21 or 22, many years ago, I was approached by a man at a convenience store who spun a fancy yarn about being hungry, and asked for money for lunch. I gave it to him, then 10 minutes later noticed him walk out of another store with a "package" of alcohol- not food.

I have been examining myself and my earlier comments in light of your remarks, but I still believe one must use wisdom and discernment when giving to certain people. Some folks need to be given a fish on the spot- others need to be taught how to fish. Still others are professional beggars, and are healthy enough to break the pattern and find work (He who does not work should not eat- 2 Thess vs. 3). Also, we have whole generations being raised addicted to the welfare rolls, and this is unbiblical as well. Then you have the able-bodied guys standing on the roadside with "will work for food signs." (Trouble is, when offered work, these guys usually refuse, then get angry and start cussing you when you press the issue).

It sounds like you are saying we should give freely (I'm focusing on physical needs right now)and without hesitation to every person who asks, regardless of what we know about them. Is this correct? Or am I mis-reading you?