And in many cases this obvious solution probably was the right one. But the visitors were not always conscious of the possible traps. Some Christians from poorer countries are masters in asking and not asking for help at the same time. I know a Czech pastor who can very passionately explain to visitors how much more he could do for the Lord if he would have a better car, a stronger computer, a higher salary. A direct request is never made.
Unsolicited hints are plentiful.
There is a European country where there is only one pastor who is paid by local money as far as I know. Most of the pastors have sponsors in the West and their income is four to five times higher than the average salary in the country. To keep their sponsors, they have to spend a few weeks, in some cases even up to two months, traveling in the West and speaking about the mighty things the Lord is doing in their church. You can imagine the pressure to make things look better than they really are. In that case, the story of Gehazi seemed quite trustworthy.