The donkey was massively overloaded. The poor creature began to falter in its steps and wobble to the point that it would collapse completely.
One man watched and acted.
He went over and supported the donkey to prevent it from falling. Then, when the donkey was steady, he began to arrange the load to be more balanced and not cause the laden donkey to topple.
This man knew if the donkey should fall to the ground, even five people would not be able to lift it.
When your brother’s means begin to falter in your midst, you should strengthen him.
Too often, we wait for a person to fall into poverty and deprivation. After the person loses their income or becomes homeless, more drastic measures of help are needed.
However, the best way to handle an unfortunate financial situation is to be proactive before the fall. Don’t wait until someone collapses under joblessness, debt, and financial ruin. Nobody wants to be dependent on charity.
Instead, extend a helping hand when you see the struggle, not the collapse. Just like the donkey in the story, give help before it’s too late.
Do not charge your brother interest on money, food, or any other type of loan.
Deuteronomy 23:10