A Wise and Rich King

Proverbs 14:21 – “He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.”

Interesting to note that one of the richest and wisest man to have ever lived wrote this Proverb. God’s favor was definitely over King Solomon. God gave him “wealth, riches and honor, such as no king who was before him ever had, and none after would have.” (2 Chronicles 1:12).

The same King Solomon, wealthy as he was, also had a heart for the poor. He wrote in the preceding verse “ The poor man is hated by his neighbor, but many are those who love the rich.” (Proverbs 14:20)

We can easily conclude that in our human nature, our tendency is to ignore, despise, dishonor, disrespect, mistreat the poor.  But inspired by the Holy Spirit, Solomon wrote that this is a sin. We sin when we are unkind and ignore the poor.

The other side of the coin, which he experienced, is that “many are those who love the rich”. So, wealth and riches can attract crooks and opportunists.  But thank God because He sees our heart, and not our wealth or poverty.

“Blessed is he who cares for the poor; the LORD will deliver him in the day of trouble.”        (Psalm 41:1)

“Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.” (Proverbs 19:17)

“Blessed are the merciful”, said Christ: for they shall obtain mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)

“…he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.” (Proverbs 14:21b)

All these verses come with a Promise. Promise for deliverance, reward, mercy and happiness.

Be careful not to mistreat any of these poor neighbors, because, after all, “we are all poor, blind and naked.” (Revelation 3:17b)  We all need God’s mercy, favor, kindness, provision, garments, grace and love.