Monday 01 October 2007
- Bible Book:
- Proverbs
"The rich and the poor have this in common: the LORD is the maker of them all... Oppressing the poor in order to enrich oneself, and giving to the rich, will lead only to loss". (v.2,16)
Background
The book of Proverbs is a collection of practical wisdom thatteaches people how to live on a daily basis. It is full of sayingsthat are still used today in everyday life. It seeks to encouragepeople to be wise; to make the choices that will lead to successand happiness.
Wisdom, we are told, is rooted in a proper respect for God. Thiswill equip people to plot a course through the many challenges andcontradictions of human life. The rewards of wisdom are very real,even material and are to be enjoyed and shared in our lifetogether, here and now.
Wisdom, to be found in this passage, includes the assertion thatboth rich and poor are made by God; the clever avoid danger whilstthe simple walk straight into it; the cautious keep away from thethorns and traps and if you educate children well they will grow upto be wise.
Generosity towards the poor is a great virtue whilst injustice andoppression will lead to disaster. Far more important than wealthand riches is the good name that comes through being humble andkind in word and deed.
To Ponder
Are there people you would describe as beingwise? What particular qualities do they display?
What part does God play in your decision-makingprocesses when faced with the difficult choices in life?
What do you understand by generosity and in whatways do you seek to be generous?