What does the Bible say about poverty and poor people?
Here's the answer:
The Bible tells us God loves poor people and He wants us to help them.
There are approximately 729 million people in the world today who live on less the $1.90 per day. Those are the people classified as poor.* They don’t know if they will have a meal tonight or a place to sleep. This is sad and hard to understand.
God wants us to help poor people because He loves them very much. How does God want us to help them?
- We can help them by giving them supplies. Jesus told a ruler to sell his possessions and give to the poor (Luke 12:33-34). You can give directly to a friend in need or donate to an organization that helps poor people. The Bible tells us to always do good and help the poor (Acts 9:36). This may be a nutritious meal, warm clothing, a fun toy, or even medical care.
- We can help them by showing compassion. We can love them, pray with them, and encourage them. While we are helping the poor, we can tell them about Jesus. We can’t only provide for their physical needs. We need to also give them the hope of Jesus. If you have a friend who is poor, you can show kindness and compassion by including your friend when playing and having fun.
The Bible tells us there will always be poor people. This means that we will have many chances to help them. As Christians, we are called to show Jesus’ love to them by our kindness, in our actions, and sharing the hope of Jesus.
*The World Bank
Bible Truth
"Suppose someone sees a brother or sister in need and is able to help them. And suppose that person doesn’t take pity on these needy people. Then how can the love of God be in that person?" (1 John 3:17).
"Anyone who crushes poor people makes fun of their Maker. But anyone who is kind to those in need honors God" (Proverbs 14:31).
"I know that the Lord makes sure that poor people are treated fairly. He stands up for those who are in need" (Psalm 140:12).
