# When Helping Hurts
## Part I: Understanding the Problem
- Poverty and Its Effects
- Defining Poverty Beyond Material Lack
- The Impact of Poverty on Relationships
- How Poverty Affects Identity and Worldview
- Misconceptions About Helping
- Common Pitfalls in Charity Work
- The Danger of Paternalism
- Unintended Consequences of Aid
- Theological Foundations for Helping
- Biblical Perspectives on Poverty
- God’s Heart for the Poor
- The Role of the Church in Addressing Poverty
## Part II: Principles for Effective Helping
- Recognizing Our Own Brokenness
- Acknowledging Personal Sin and Need for Redemption
- Avoiding Savior Complexes
- Embracing Humility in Service
- Empowering vs. Enabling
- Understanding Dependency vs. Empowerment
- Strategies for Sustainable Development
- Encouraging Local Leadership
- Building Relationships Over Programs
- Importance of Long-Term Commitment
- Fostering Mutual Respect and Dignity
- Listening to Community Needs
## Part III: Practical Steps for Helping Without Hurting
- Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD)
- Identifying Local Resources and Strengths
- Leveraging Existing Capacities
- Collaborating with Local Stakeholders
- Short-Term Missions Done Right
- Preparing Participants for Cultural Sensitivity
- Aligning Short-Term Efforts with Long-Term Goals
- Evaluating Success Beyond Immediate Outcomes
- Addressing Systemic Issues
- Advocacy as a Form of Service
- Engaging in Policy Change
- Combating Structural Injustice
## Part IV: Case Studies and Reflections
- Real-Life Examples of Helping Gone Wrong
- Stories of Dependency Created by Well-Meaning Helpers
- Lessons Learned from Failed Initiatives
- Success Stories of Transformational Development
- Communities Empowered Through Partnership
- Celebrating Progress While Remaining Grounded
- Personal Reflection Questions
- How Can I Serve Without Harming?
- What Are My Motivations for Helping Others?
- Am I Willing to Learn and Adapt?
## Conclusion: A Call to Action
- Reimagining Our Approach to Poverty Alleviation
- Moving Toward Holistic Solutions
- Prioritizing Relationship Over Results
- Living Out the Gospel Through Compassionate Service