How Long Is the Second Mile?

(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.

How far are you willing to go in order to become rich and powerful?  This reflects on the tendency to manipulate and use people for your own ends.  On one end you have oppression and on the other bribery.  The goal is selfish achievement.  This is not God’s way and it cannot be our way.

We are to treat people as befits creations of God.  Things like wealth or social standing should not change the element of courtesy and consideration.  While it is true that their behavior may generate different responses from you, there are limits.  I have a student in mind.  He never brings anything to write with.  Every day he expects someone else to supply what is his responsibility.  I was helpful for a few days but after a time refuse to help any more.  It isn’t because he is poor.  It is because he is lazy and selfish.  By now the class won’t loan him anything either because he often breaks what they give him and rarely returns what is loaned.

So?  Kindness, compassion, consideration are staples in our lives.  They are not offered because of class or self benefit, they are due.  They can also be abused and withdrawn.  Of course that is my humble opinion.  Many would disagree with me.