Introduction:
The theme of "Compassion Over Wealth" is a recurring principle throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of love, kindness, and generosity over the accumulation of material riches. This principle is deeply rooted in the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, where believers are encouraged to prioritize the needs of others and to reflect God's love through acts of compassion.

Old Testament Foundations:
The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding the value of compassion over wealth. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature often contrasts the fleeting nature of riches with the enduring value of righteousness and kindness. Proverbs 11:4 states, "Riches are worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death." This verse highlights the ultimate futility of wealth in the face of divine judgment, underscoring the importance of living a life marked by righteousness and compassion.

The Mosaic Law also reflects this principle, particularly in its provisions for the poor and marginalized. Leviticus 19:9-10 instructs, "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." This commandment demonstrates God's concern for the needy and His desire for His people to act with generosity and compassion.

Prophetic Voices:
The prophets of Israel frequently called the nation to repentance, often criticizing the wealthy for their lack of compassion and justice. In Isaiah 58:6-7 , the prophet declares, "Is not this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?" Here, true worship is equated with acts of compassion and justice, rather than mere ritualistic observance.

New Testament Teachings:
The New Testament continues to emphasize compassion over wealth, with Jesus Christ serving as the ultimate example. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19-20). This teaching encourages believers to focus on eternal values rather than temporal wealth.

Jesus' parables often illustrate the importance of compassion. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a poignant example, where the Samaritan's compassionate actions toward a wounded man are contrasted with the indifference of others. This parable underscores the call to love one's neighbor and to act with mercy, regardless of social or ethnic boundaries.

Apostolic Exhortations:
The apostles also reinforce the theme of compassion over wealth. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19 , Paul advises, "Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share, treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life." This passage encourages the wealthy to use their resources for good, emphasizing generosity and the pursuit of true life in Christ.

Conclusion:
The biblical narrative consistently prioritizes compassion over wealth, urging believers to reflect God's love through acts of kindness and generosity. This principle challenges individuals to evaluate their values and actions, aligning them with the teachings of Scripture and the example of Jesus Christ.