What Does the Bible Say About Asking for Financial Help?

Talking about money can feel uncomfortable. Sometimes even shameful. Even when we know we truly need it.

Maybe we start thinking of Bible verses that warn us about greed, or “the love of money,” like 1 Timothy 6:10 talks about.

Yet for many, financial hardship is a daily reality.

Whether you’re struggling to pay rent, support a family, or simply make ends meet, the question often arises: Is it okay to ask others for financial help? What does the Bible actually say about seeking help when you’re in need?

In this article, we’ll explore biblical principles that emphasize both the wisdom and humility of seeking help when facing financial challenges.

Specifically, we’ll cover:

What the Bible says about poverty and dependence on others
Examples of people in Scripture who sought or received financial support
God’s call for generosity within the Christian community
Practical insights on how to ask for help biblically and wisely
Encouragement for those who feel ashamed of financial need

Let’s begin by understanding the biblical position on poverty and dependence on others.

What the Bible says about poverty and dependence on others

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

The Bible does not condemn people who are in financial need. In fact, it acknowledges poverty as a reality and provides wisdom on how to navigate it.

Scripture is filled with powerful Bible verses that demonstrate our Heavenly Father’s deep care for the poor and His expectation that His people do the same.

While there are indeed passages of Scripture (such as Proverbs 22:7 or Romans 13:8) that caution us about borrowing money and putting part of our financial health under the control of another (whether a person, a community, or a bank), one foundational principle is that asking for financial help is not a sign of weak faith. It can turn out to be an opportunity to witness God’s provision through others.

In fact, it could be an opportunity to grow in humility since pride can take a hit when we have to ask for financial help.

Paul reassures believers in the book of Philippians:

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19, NKJV).

This promise doesn’t always mean instant monetary riches or dramatic financial windfalls. Sometimes, God’s blessing comes through the kindness of others: a friend who shares, a generous family member, a church that supports, or a stranger moved by compassion.

God also commands His people to care for the poor (Proverbs 19:17) and not to ignore their cries. In Deuteronomy, God says:

“If there is among you a poor man of your brethren, within any of the gates in your land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother, but you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he needs” (Deuteronomy 15:7-8, NKJV).

So, if Scripture validates the need for help, are there examples of individuals who actually asked—and received—financial assistance in the Bible?

Examples of people in Scripture who sought or received financial support

Throughout the Bible, we see godly people who weren’t afraid to ask for help or who humbly received it when offered.

Consider Elijah during the famine in 1 Kings 17. God sent him to a widow who, though poor herself, was part of God’s plan for Elijah’s provision. She shared her last meal—and was blessed with an abundant supply throughout the drought.

The early church also paints a clear picture of mutual support:

“Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need” (Acts 2:44-45, NKJV).

Even Jesus accepted support from others during His ministry. Luke 8:3 mentions women who “were helping to support them out of their own means” (NKJV).

None of these stories suggests weakness. Instead, they reflect humility, community, and trust in God. Accepting or asking for help was often the start of a financial breakthrough, not a setback.

If both Scripture and example affirm that it’s okay to receive help, what does the Bible say about those who are able to give?

God’s call for generosity within the Christian community

A generous person removing five dollars note from his wallet ready to give to the needy.

Photo by Karola G

Generosity is at the heart of Christian living.

The Bible repeatedly emphasises that giving—especially to those in need—is both a command and a channel for blessing.
Paul writes:

“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8, NKJV).

When we give generously, we become conduits of God’s love. The whole tithe (Malachi 3:10) is a principle that reminds us to honour God with our finances, and in return, He promises to “open the floodgates of heaven.”

In the book of Proverbs, we’re told:

“Honor the Lord with your possessions,
And with the firstfruits of all your increase;
So your barns will be filled with plenty,
And your vats will overflow with new wine” (Proverbs 3:9-10, NKJV).

Generosity invites financial blessings, not just to the receiver but also to the giver. And it’s through this community of giving and receiving that no one should be left behind in their financial struggles.

Still, asking for help requires discernment and wisdom. How can we do it in a way that is biblically sound and honouring to God?

Practical insights on how to ask for help biblically and wisely

The Bible encourages us to act with diligence, wisdom, and faith. Asking for financial help should not replace hard work or wise debt management, but it can complement them when circumstances are difficult.

Here are key biblical principles to guide you:

Pray first:
Before asking anyone, talk to your Heavenly Father. Prayer realigns our hearts and helps us approach situations with humility and trust (James 1:5).
Be honest and humble:
Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established” (NKJV). Be open about your situation. Avoid manipulation. God honours transparency.
Work and plan:
The Bible also values hard work. Proverbs 10:22 reminds us, “The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it” (NKJV). This doesn’t mean we won’t work, but that our trust in God complements our effort.
Seek counsel:
Read and seek guidance from mature believers. Wise counsel can help you discern when to ask, from whom, and how to proceed.
Avoid presumption in borrowing and lending:
While borrowing isn’t condemned, it should be done with caution and with a sense of responsibility to use the help to empower oneself (Proverbs 22:7). And when offering help, give in a way that empowers the receiver to be self-reliant and not dependent (Luke 6:34-35).

Despite all this biblical guidance, many still feel ashamed when they need financial help. What does the Bible say to those burdened by guilt or fear?

Encouragement for those who feel ashamed of financial need

A hand stretched out ready to receive finncial assistance.

Photo by hilip Justin Mamelic

Shame is not from God.

The enemy often whispers lies, such as, “You should have figured this out yourself,” or “You’re a failure.” But the Bible teaches something different.

In Deuteronomy, we’re reminded that it is “the Lord your God … who gives you power to get wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18, NKJV).

God sees your diligence, even when results don’t come quickly. He doesn’t promise a life free from financial struggles, but He promises His presence in the midst of them.

Psalm 1:1-3 paints a picture of the righteous person who is like a tree planted by streams of water… whatever they do prospers.

And in his letter to the believers, John prays:

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 1:2, NKJV).

Asking for help may be the door God wants you to walk through to receive your financial breakthrough. Don’t let pride or fear keep you from the blessing He wants to give through others.

God cares about your needs and your growth

The Bible doesn’t forbid asking for financial help. In fact, it shows us how to do it with faith, humility, and wisdom.

Whether you’re in a season of need or able to give, God’s Word offers clarity:

Financial help can be a blessing to both the giver and receiver.
God’s people are called to generosity, not judgment.
Prayer, diligence, and faith must guide both your needs and your plans.
God’s provision often comes through community. Don’t isolate yourself in your struggle.

If this article spoke to your situation, don’t stop here. Hope for Africa’s Faith and Finance has even more Bible-based answers to help you grow in your financial understanding and deepen your trust in God.