Out of the many topics discussed in ECON 101, the issue of poverty stuck out to me the most. After discussing a number of reasons why poverty is still such a prominent issue in some countries, it made me reconsider what is actually beneficial for these people in these conditions. Besides the fact that government aid does more harm than good, it was also interesting to consider that mission trips in some ways hurt rather than help these places. This intrigues me so much, seeing as there appears to be no changes to the way mission trips approach helping a poor city or area. I have seen many missions trips that have hurt rather than helped a community. If the church is aware of this, why are no modifications happening to the way they approach giving back to that area? What are ways for those believers coming to evangelize to encourage those people to work and make a living for themselves? As we've talked about previously, as Christians, we are to give back to those less fortunate and provide Biblical charity. Charity without a biblical stance can become dangerous for the recipient, even if we have good intentions.
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Indeed, this is often the sad case. It is easy for Christians to get caught up in the "American Savior" mentality. It is only natural, as we are commanded and called to love others and give to the poor by Jesus himself. However, we are called not to be mindless in our giving. We are commanded to love others unconditionally, but just as the disciples and Jesus had methods, we should too! Self-less giving should reflect the situation at hand. Handouts might be very much needed for emergency relief, but sustainable methods, investment, and partnering is necessary for long-term results.