Introduction

Poverty and riches are recurring themes throughout the Bible, reflecting the spiritual, moral, and social dimensions of wealth and lack thereof. The Scriptures provide guidance on the attitudes and responsibilities associated with both states, emphasizing the importance of righteousness, contentment, and trust in God over material wealth.

Poverty

Poverty is often depicted in the Bible as a condition that can lead to vulnerability and dependence on God. The Scriptures acknowledge the reality of poverty and call for compassion and justice towards the poor. In Deuteronomy 15:11, it is stated, "For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you to open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor in your land." This verse underscores the perpetual presence of poverty and the obligation of God's people to provide for those in need.

The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses poverty, offering wisdom on how to avoid it and how to respond to it. Proverbs 10:4 notes, "Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." This suggests that poverty can sometimes result from laziness, while diligence is commended as a path to prosperity. However, the Bible also recognizes that poverty can occur through no fault of one's own, as seen in the plight of Job, who lost his wealth despite his righteousness (Job 1:13-22).

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Himself identifying with the poor. In Matthew 8:20, Jesus says, "Foxes have dens and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head." This identification with poverty highlights the spiritual richness that transcends material wealth. The early church is also depicted as caring for the poor, as seen in Acts 4:34-35, where believers shared their possessions to ensure that "there was no needy one among them."

Riches

Riches, while not inherently evil, are often portrayed in the Bible as a potential stumbling block to spiritual growth and dependence on God. The love of money is explicitly warned against in 1 Timothy 6:10: "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." This verse highlights the dangers of prioritizing wealth over faith and righteousness.

The teachings of Jesus frequently address the challenges associated with wealth. In the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21), Jesus warns against storing up earthly treasures without being "rich toward God." Similarly, in Matthew 19:24, Jesus states, "Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." These teachings emphasize the difficulty of maintaining spiritual focus amidst material abundance.

However, the Bible also acknowledges that wealth can be a blessing from God when used righteously. Proverbs 10:22 states, "The blessing of the LORD enriches, and He adds no sorrow to it." Wealth is seen as a tool for doing good, as instructed in 1 Timothy 6:17-18: "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."

Conclusion

The Bible presents a balanced view of poverty and riches, urging believers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), regardless of their material circumstances. The ultimate focus is on spiritual wealth and the eternal treasures that come from a life devoted to God.