This passage reveals what is inside people’s hearts and how it controls their actions. The wicked are easily afraid and run away at hardship and trouble. However, in the face of opposition, the righteous are very bold, like lions, and no one dares to approach them. When the people are lawless, many leaders try to grab power. Yet when there is a person who has understanding and knowledge, they provide stability to the community.

How we view people based on social status is important before God and a true indication of our character. A poor person with integrity is much better than a rich and evil person. Those who oppress the poor will face God’s judgment. But those who pay attention to the poor and are generous to them are blessed by God. It is easy to turn our eyes away from poor people. Are you running away from helping the poor, and do you see the poor right in front of you and do nothing?

Those who turn away from hearing the law to give to the poor will not be heard by God, no matter how hard they pray. But the righteous who love God, love others, and give freely will receive a godly inheritance.
Application: Father, please forgive me for neglecting the poor. Help me to be generous. Help me to trust in your reward instead of piling up riches for myself.
One Word: Better a poor man with integrity