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What Is God’s View of Poverty?
Material wealth is not a sure indication of God’s blessing and being poor is not necessarily a sign of God’s disapproval. In fact, it is possible to be poor in material things but rich in spiritual things. The opposite is also true: Many people who are wealthy in material things remain spiritually destitute.
The Bible is clear that both poverty and wealth can be used by God. Jesus and His disciples lived in relative poverty. Others in the Bible lived in great wealth—Solomon and King David are two examples. Proverbs 22:2 sums it up well, “Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.”
Our human perspective often sees wealth as a blessing from God and poverty as a curse. Instead, God’s plan is much greater! He calls us to be content in both circumstances. God’s blessings are not defined by our possessions.
The Bible also presents God’s heart for those in poverty. In our verses today, we learn that God delivers the needy. He hears their cries. Each life is precious to God—so precious that He gave His Son to die for us. He rescues us from the penalty of sin and provides the free gift of eternal life. John 10:14-15 says, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.” The shepherd cares for the sheep because he loves them.
The Bible tells us that God “takes up the case” of those who have been crushed. When we follow His lead, we become an advocate for the poor—doing whatever we can to fight for justice.
Ask Yourself: Do I truly believe that God has a heart for the needy or do I see the poor as somehow cursed by God? How does this perspective affect how I respond to the needy?
Suggested Prayer:
God, give me love for those in need. Soften my heart to see the person, not just his or her circumstances. I want to follow your example and do what I can to fight for justice.
Learn More: "What the Bible Says About Children, Poverty and Compassion"
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About this Plan
Why do I have good health, an education, and material possessions, but not others? It can be difficult to understand why we’ve been given the opportunity to live outside of poverty, while billions of God’s children struggle to live day by day. Join us on this five-day journey as we learn more about why God put you where you are, and His plan for your life.
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