Don't send them away empty-handed

Written By Allan Smith

We can learn a lot from the ancients (even if you are not a believer; I am ). I've started following a Bible plan on "generous living" (Check out the YouVersion app on your android or I-phone). Today I read the following verse from the book of Deuteronomy, chapter 15:

When you release a male servant, do not send him away empty-handed. Give him a generous farewell gift from your flock, your threshing floor, and your winepress. Share with him some of the bounty with which the Lord your God has blessed you.

 What does it cost you to be generous? When your helper completes her contract, or if you need to pre-maturely terminate the contract, why not send them away FULL? Why not pour some blessings onto them and their family? We sometimes help employers and employees to complete the paperwork for terminating the contractual relationship. I sometimes ask employers if they want to give the helper a little extra. (Of course, I don't say this in front of the helper) Sometimes I get this response: "She doesn't deserve any extra. I wouldn't even give her the 1 month salary, if I didn't have to." and they refuse to give the helper even one cent more than required by the contract. Honestly, let me ask "so what if she doesn't deserve it??? Do you deserve the blessings God has poured out on you?"  (TYPE YOUR ANSWER HERE: _ _ ).  Of course there are circumstances when I wouldn't give a helper extra. (e.g. dishonest or dangerous or outright disrespectful behavior), but that is rarely the case. Most of the time, if we prematurely terminate, it is just because they are not up to the job. Not their fault, just not a good match.

I believe that God has designed us to bless others, and when we do (whether they deserve it or not), then the world becomes a better place, and we become a better and happier person. Where is the downside in that? Hopefully you'll never have to terminate a helper. But even if your helper completes her contract and moves on to another employer, why not send her off with her arms full? Pour some blessing on her and her family. Then see how you feel. Be a blessing! What do you think?

Allan Smith

Allan Smith is the owner of Arrow Employment Services in Hong Kong. Hiring a helper from another country and culture is difficult and misunderstandings are common. Our goal is to help you “find and keep a good helper”. If you are looking for work, our goal is to “help you find and keep a good job”. We help you navigate the often difficult employer - employee relationship.

http://arrowes.hk
Previous

Why we administer 2 pregnancy tests
Next

Financial Literary for OFWs