Two Way Street

(Proverbs 22:16 KJV)  He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

The Bible understands that there are different classes and economic groupings.  It does not take a Pollyanna approach and say that we can do away with poverty.  In fact, Jesus said just the opposite.

(Matthew 26:11 KJV)  For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.

Proverbs gives many reasons for these differences and in most cases the responsibility for your financial condition is laid at your feet, not the rich oppressor.  That is no excuse for despising those who are different.

The key to Christian character is how we treat each other.  Are we motivated by agape love?  We are not to take advantage of those below us on the pecking order.  We are not to try to buy off those who are above us.  We are not to penalize one group to benefit the other.

So?  Honesty and courtesy pave a two way street.  I hope you don’t feel inferior because you don’t have as much as others.  The opposite is also true.