Debt, Wealth, and Poverty

BY She Reads Truth

The book of Proverbs is a guide for pursuing godly wisdom in our daily lives. In this four-week study, we will read a selection of topical proverbs covering different aspects of wisdom, from how to interact with our friends, families, and neighbors, to fearing God and keeping His commands. No matter the subject, these proverbs urge us to wrestle with and reflect on our own response to them. To help you better engage with the proverbs in this reading plan, we have provided you with a short introduction and reflection questions for each day.

There is nothing inherently sinful about wealth. God gave King Solomon great wealth, and He continues to use the generosity of His people to fund important works of mercy and justice around the world. But God’s people are called to be very careful when it comes to the pursuit of wealth and very generous when it comes to caring for the poor. Money is more than a means to buy the things we need. It is power, and it always has been. Love of money is a “root of all kinds of evil,” because it is often the love of being able to wield power for our own benefit (1 Timothy 6:10). 

Reflection Questions:

Have you ever financially over-extended yourself? If so, what did that experience teach you? 

Read Proverbs 11:28. What else does God’s Word teach you about trust? Why shouldn’t you trust in your riches? 

Being as honest with yourself as you can be, do you think you are a person who easily sees the poverty in and around you? Why is it important to remember that God made us all, regardless of our wealth or social status?