A fool and his money?

First off, sorry about the cutesy picture. I try not to endorse that sort of thing. Second, I'm not a big fan of cats. So there.

I have been criticized often enough for giving money to the homeless that I figured the subject deserved a post. This was never an issue when I lived in the suburbs growing up. There simply weren't any homeless people wandering around. But now that I live in Phoenix, they are common enough.

When they approach me, I try to find out what they really need. Some are just looking for food, some are looking for a bus ticket, and some just want money. I do my best to oblige. You see I view the money in my possession as an investment from God. He has put me in charge of it with the idea of getting a good return on his investment. If someone in need asks me, and I, having plenty, dismiss the request, then I have done a terrible thing. 

Some of you will argue that the homeless person just wants to buy drugs or alcohol. Then he (or she) will have to answer to God for that. I won't knowingly support the abuse of those things. But if I refuse them aid when they have need, then I will have to answer to God for that. So I give, out of kindness and out of obedience. My conscience is clear.