3:28

As in 3:27, the second line of this verse completes the thought of the first line. It specifies the circumstance in which a person should not delay in helping his neighbor. Also notice that 3:28 is parallel to 3:27. The command in Proverbs 3:28 is similar to the command in 3:27, but it is more specific.

28a Do not tell your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I will provide”—

28b when you already have the means.

3:28a–b

Do not tell your neighbor, “Come back tomorrow and I will provide”—when you already have the means: This verse refers to the same situation as 3:27. It refers to a person who owes some good to his neighbor. If this person is able to give his neighbor what he deserves, he should do it when the neighbor requests it. He should not delay by telling him to return the next day.

neighbor: In Hebrew, this word can refer to anyone with whom one interacts. It can include a close friend or someone who is only an acquaintance. It does not refer only to a person who lives nearby.

tomorrow: The word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as tomorrow may also have a more general meaning. It may refer to another day or another opportunity.

The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse with a direct quote. The Good News Translation uses an indirect quote. It has:

Never tell your neighbors to wait until tomorrow if you can help them now.

You should use whatever is more effective in your language for this context.

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