Why is there poverty?

Origin of poverty & God’s plan for it

Read Romans 5:12

In the Garden of Eden, life was perfect. There was no death or sin; there was no pain. But the fall of man caused sin. With the entrance of sin came the consequences of it as well – death, pain, and suffering. Because we live in a broken world, people experience poverty and the suffering that comes along with it.

When we recognize that poverty is a result of a broken world (and not always just because of someone’s choices), we can more easily understand the reasons our brothers and sisters are experiencing poverty.

You may not be experiencing poverty yourself, but we all experience the consequences of sin and a broken world.

Though poverty was not a part of God’s perfect design, he still knew it would happen and had a plan to address it. Throughout the Bible, we see rules given by God to the people of Israel to ensure they were protected and cared for.

Read Exodus 23: 10-11

The Old Testament was written to a specific people group in a specific context at a specific point in time. However, it still helps us see God’s character and heart towards his people – characteristics still true today.

Poverty may not have been a part of God’s perfect design in the Garden, but we can see from Scripture that we should be involved in serving those experiencing it.

Reflection

1. What have been your experiences with poverty?
2. When you think of poverty, what comes to mind?
3. How is God calling you to adjust your view of poverty?
4. How is God affirming your view of poverty?