I grew up in what I believe would be considered (in the 1960s-70s) the socio-economic “middle class”. My parents weren’t rich, but we certainly were not poor or receiving governmental welfare assistance. My attitudes toward the poor have been largely formed by inner city experiences, travel to Central America and reading scripture. Solomon said that how we treat the poor reveals something about how we feel about God (their Maker) I believe God has a special place in his heart for the poor and we should too. Jesus said that ‘the poor you will have with you always’. I must resist the tendency to hate the poor. Instead I can be one who honors God by being gracious and merciful to the poor. They may be my very neighbor. And at some reversal of fortune, it may be me.
The poor is hated even by his neighbor,
But those who love the rich are many.
One who despises his neighbor sins,
But one who is gracious to the poor is blessed. Proverbs 14:21
One who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker,
But one who is gracious to the needy honors Him. Proverbs 14:31
How generous of a person am I really? What would happen to the modern welfare system if Christians led the way with God’s heart?
God, as this day begins- I realize that its easy to blame the poor for being poor. Help me guard my heart in such a way that only mercy and grace flow from it. There are many tasks, meetings, and ministry ahead today. Help me walk in Your ways with Your attitudes and accomplish eternal things.
