Meaning of the word "be just before you are generous" in English

What does "be just before you are generous" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

be just before you are generous

US /biː dʒʌst bɪˈfɔːr ju ɑːr ˈdʒɛnərəs/
UK /biː dʒʌst bɪˈfɔː juː ɑː ˈdʒɛnərəs/
"be just before you are generous" picture

Idiom

one should pay one's debts or fulfill one's obligations before giving gifts or being charitable to others

Example:
You should pay back the money you owe me before donating to charity; be just before you are generous.
He bought everyone drinks but hasn't paid his rent; he needs to learn to be just before you are generous.