What is the Christian thing to do in this situation?

Question

I was walking out of Walgreens today and as I walked out, a man stopped me and wanted to talk to me. He looked to be about 40 or so, and I am 20. I'm pretty sure he was a homeless man, because there are many in my town. He talked to me for about a minute and then asked me for my phone number so he could see me again because he "needed someone to talk to". What is the Christian thing to do in this situation? I told him no, and then he asked me for money and I honestly didn't have any, so I couldn't. I felt so bad afterwards... but I couldn't just give this strange homeless man my number. What would you do in this situation?

Answer 1

He's a telemarketer. Don't give him your number.

Answer 2

If you are a female , you did the right thing by not giving him your number. If you are a male you would probably be wise not to give him your number. However if you think he was sincere in wanting someone to talk to you could ask him to meet you at a later date to talk, and also offer to bring him some food. Many of these so called homeless people are just scammers. If he accepts the offer of food then the odds that he is legitimate increase. In the town nearest my rural home, there are homeowners who dress up like bums and beg at the mall entrance. They make up to 200$ a day, tax free. I would say 80% of the beggars you see on on-ramps and city streets holding signs do not want food or work , they just want money and dont want to work for it like the rest of us. Now with that said I still do offer food and sometimes give money to beggars just in case they are legitimate. I certainly wouldnt want to see a real person in need go hungry. Try the food test, or when they have a sign that says "will work for food " ask them if they are prepared to dig a ditch for you 3 feet deep 3 feet wide and 30 feet long. If they say yes give them a buck or put them to work. Also beware of the gas can scam. A guy or gal has a gas can in their hand and say I just need a couple of bucks worth of gas to get me to the bank or home. I say let me see your car and check your gas gauge, if its empty Ill give you a few bucks. Not yet have I ever even been shown a gas gauge. I know this does not seem like a good Christian attitude towards the poor . But there are so many phoneys out there you must be carefull. Also there are plenty of homeless shelters that can be donated to . The real homeless will be helped that way 100 % of the time. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

You didn't have money to give... so you can't feel bad. I never carry cash (I use a debit) and I have felt the same way. It makes me wonder what homeless and disadvantaged people will do when/if paper currency becomes obsolete... Interesting thought (Could be another question...). As for giving out your phone number, it is in your best interest to not give it out.The Christian thing to do in this situation is maybe give the guy a few words of good advice/encouragement and be on your way. Giving him money will only allow him to continue on the path he is on. I have even given a homeless person my left over pizza take out. I figure food is much better than what they may purchase with cash.

Answer 4

You did the right thing. Homeless and poor people have the same opportunity to pick up the phone and call the help line as you do. They also have access to enough caring cupboards and kitchens to keep them alive.

It is a sad state to see people in. It is partly to do with hard times in our society, mental health issues, and with some plain laziness. When you talk to someone in that situation, how are you going to know what situation he is dealing with?

Things happen for a reason, and I am relieved you happened not to have money on you. You were vulnerable and he put you on the spot. There are so many things that could have happened, and the only one of them that was good for you was the opportunity to learn a lesson. My daughter is as compassionate as you are. It makes me sound hard, but life's experiences have taught me what I know. It is not your responsibility to take care of a wandering soul that is older and bigger than you. Next time someone like him asks you for your telephone number, don't let it make you feel bad. Say you don't have a telephone. I have lots more to say, but I am not here to write a book. So I will finish with, use your compassionate Christianity to help someone you can help. Little children need someone to talk to too... in an environment that is safe for them AND you.

Answer 5

The thing to do is the next time you are asked for your number by a homeless person give out the number to the department of mental health, or some such number where a homeless person can get some help.

If you feel uncomfortable in the situation, then don't even waste time, and get out of the situation. Some homeless people have mental illnesses, and some of them are stalkers.

Answer 6

You did the right thing. Was it the Christian thing to do, under the circumstances, yes. Things and people have changed a lot but I believe Jesus had a "don't call me, I'll call you" air about him. But he made it known he would check in or up!

HE controlled the situation. If you gave out your number, you
would have lost control.

The fact that you took the time to talk with this person and were willing to give what you had (albeit nothing) indicates
your heart was in the right place. You did more than most
by engaging this scenario. Walk proud.

What would I do in this situation? Wished for your patience
and obvious compassion.

Answer 7

I would have done the same as you so well done - stop feeling guilty - if he had just asked for money he may have been genuine. When it comes to the phone number, uh-uh! You acted the right way pet. My son will be asked for money for food by someone who really is homeless, he always says no, but pops into a nearest shop after telling the person 'wait' and comes out with a carton or can of fruit juice and a sandwich or roll for them. Most are overwhelmed and well thankful, but once the guy just called him a rude word and threw the pasty (that rime it was a pasty) into the rubbish bin. another time the guy was fulsome in thanks and then when he thought my son not looking chucked the sandwich into the gutter. So you see it does vary but caution is best.

Answer 8

You could have given an email. But this day and age you can't say "here is where I live" to anyone who wants to know. Being homeless, he can still find folks to talk to. You can pray for him, that is more than any talking can ever hope to do. But giving him your phone number is the same as giving him your home address. Anyone can find anyone via the internet. You did the right thing. Say a prayer for him.

Would you want your child to give their home phone number to a strange man? For any reason? NO! Of course not. Just because you are older does not mean you are going to be told the truth about intentions. You did the right thing.

Answer 9

I think you did the right thing, If the man was really in need God would have spoken to your heart at that moment. But you really have to be careful these days....a man walking up to you asking for your number sounds a little frightening to me. The world is a scary place these days!!! I'm glad you didn't give him your number and I really feel like the only thing you should do is just pray, that whatever his need may be that God help him with that. God Bless

Answer 10

You should definitely NOT give him your phone number. And if someone asked me for my number, I would not give him money either. He is toooo friendly and you were right to be cautious and should not feel guilty.
Next time someone on the street wants to "talk" tell them you "are sorry" but are in a rush. If he just wanted money he would have asked for it up front.
You cannot help every single homeless man in your city. So help the ones that you can without being too friendly. If you want to refer them to a church or agency where they can get housing, food, clothes, etc. you could learn where these places are.
That guy was playing you. I have experience working around the homeless, so that's my take on it.


Sending you a smile to help pick up your day.

Answer 11

It's never wise to give strangers your personal information. I don't know about your community, but here where I live there are all sorts of charitable organizations. Our own church has a ministry for food, clothes, and help for people. This town has a local food pantry. Many of the churches in the area will take someone to buy whatever they need. We have medical help for those who can't afford it. Our local Salvation Army provides food, clothing, and a place to sleep. You need to find out what your town has to offer so you can help people you come across like that one. But, because of the times we live in, you must be wise about your own safety. Of course, if you had some money, I'm a firm believer to give what you can, even if it might be a scam. I'd rather stand before God and be guilty of stupidity than be guilty of not helping someone when I could have.