Why would anyone oppress another?

TODAY’S PROVERB: The one who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him. Proverbs 14:31, TLV

Why would anyone oppress the poor or weak? Because, unfortunately, they can. How we treat the poor is a reflection of the condition of our heart. Do we ignore them? Judge them? Then that resides in our heart, as well.

Does our Heavenly Father love the rich more than the poor? Some folks actually believe that God has given more favor to the rich. That if the poor would just have more faith, they would have more. This is what we call “stinking thinking.”

Whether rich or poor, our position in life might have something to do with our efforts or lack thereof, but sometimes it is simply our journey.

Today’s proverb (and others in scripture) is a clear warning that our Father will not tolerate oppression of his children, especially the poor. That applies to spouses, children, parents, employees, the check-out woman at Food Lion.

We are stewards of His creation. Humans are part of that creation. We all have a responsibility to one another. Treating our brothers and sisters in Messiah with respect no matter their financial state is core to our faith.

Jesus’ half-brother Jacob/James had strong sentiments about souls that favor the wealthy.

But let the brother in humble circumstances boast in his high position—and the rich person in his humble position, because like the flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun arises with a scorching heat and withers the grass, and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed. So also the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will wither away.

JACOB/JAMES 1:9-11

When we work together and abide in love and generosity, we honor our Father. And that’s a good thing.

May we honor our Father, well, my friends.

Proverbs 14:31 Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs