Does It Tell Us to Help the Poor in The Bible?
Throughout the Bible, we are instructed to help the poor. Jesus clearly said that those who help the poor, sick and needy will be rewarded.
He calls us to clothe the poor, care for the sick, and visit the prisoner:
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Moses gave specific instructions, too:
“Give generously to [them] and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” – Deuteronomy 15:10
In fact, Proverbs makes this bold statement:
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” – Proverbs 14:31
What does this compassion look like?
Here’s how the Bible describes helping the poor:
The Bible clearly teaches that our love toward the poor should include action.
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:17
The Bible teaches that God is an advocate for the poor or oppressed.
“For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.” – Psalm 72:12-14
The Bible clearly teaches that God uses us to help the poor.
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” – Romans 12:11-13