June 3, 2016: SOAP #2374: Proverbs 28-29; Psalm 60; Romans 16

Scripture: Proverbs (NIV) 28:8 He who increases his wealth by exorbitant interest amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor.

Observation:  In coming to the final chapters of reading through the book of Proverbs, I think back over the many verses that address the poor. There can be many causes for poverty. Being poor is not the worst thing in life. There are ways to treat the poor and ways to not treat the poor. These verses and more show us that poverty is an important issue to God.

Application: I do not need a special revelation from God to help the poor. I have the Bible! God has spoken clearly enough about his concern for the poor. He has made it clear that I should be willing to help them. Once my obligations (including my tithes) have been met, I can consider how to help people in need. Paul encouraged 2Co 8:12: “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.” That says to me that I should not go into debt but give from what I have in hand. I can help the needs I can see and understand. If I am helping from a distance, I can give through a ministry that has personal actively involved in verifying the need. NOTE: being a Facebook friend is not sufficient for me to send money. I never send money to people I do not know.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, may you find my heart willing to help the poor. Give me wisdom to help them in ways that are beneficial. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!