Parenting by the Book
STUDY 358
Text: Proverbs 28
4 May 2008
Dear Parents,
THE POOR OF THE EARTH
Israel has always been taught to have a kind regard for the poor (Deuteronomy 15). The following is a solemn challenge to Israel concerning the poor.
For the poor will never cease from the land;
therefore I command you, saying,
‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother,
to your poor and your needy, in the land.Deuteronomy 15:11
PROVERBIAL ADVICE
The following are proverbial advice concerning the poor:
He who has a generous eye will be blessed,
For he gives of his bread to the poor.Proverbs 22:9
He who has pity on the poor lends to the LORD,
And He will pay back what he has given.Proverbs 19:17
ENCOURAGEMENT TO CARE FOR THE POOR
We have another challenging text to ponder here.
He who gives to the poor will not lack,
But he who hides his eyes will have many curses.Proverbs 28:27
1. A special promise given
Giving to the poor is never a vain exercise! The person who gives to the poor will not lack! The promise of God’s supply is understood (Proverbs 19:17).
2. Cultivating a kind and generous heart
The heart must be trained carefully before it can be kind and generous! It is important that we encourage our children to be concerned for the poor!
A SOLEMN WORD OF WARNING
What happens to those who do not care for the poor?
1. People who hide their eyes from the plight of the poor
There are many who hide their eyes from the poor! They look away from the plight of the poor!
2. They will have many curses
The poor in their hunger will curse the uncaring rich! Worse, the wicked rich may be disciplined by the Lord!
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie