Why do friends take advantage of you?
Question:
With friends, there is a tendency to take things for granted, especially when you do favors. I have a good friend who I have helped out in the past numerous times and continue to help. I lent him transportation since he had no mode of transportation, which I later informed him I wanted to sell. He informed me that he wanted to buy it and I agreed. He gave me half of it, and because he is a friend he told me he will pay the rest later. At times I feel that I am being taken advantage of, as I am Christian, and realize that dealing with people and money is always a touchy thing. I think I have been very patient and have asked nicely to put something toward the remaining balance. I believe he will do it, but I find that I have to remind him constantly; yet, if he required funds, I am willing to provide without hesitation and without the expectation of getting it back.
I have come to realize that friends and money are not a good combination; yet, I have to understand that people don’t have the same mindset as I do. I have come across a number of situations where I have to ask for money that I lend out. What is the best way to deal with similar situations when they come up?
Answer:
"And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil" (Luke 6:34-35).
It isn't always easy, but when I'm asked for a loan, I look at my own situation and ask if I can do without the funds. If I am, then I give them the money. They make whatever agreement they want on their end, but I basically forget about it on my end. If they do pay it back, then great! I have some extra cash I wasn't expecting. If it never comes back, well, I wasn't expecting it anyway. I know God is watching and He'll take care of the fairness of the situations.
Has my generosity been abused? Certainly. Do I regret it? No, not really. I do get disappointed in people, but there are always some who really needed the help, who were really appreciative of it, and who returned the favor when they could.
