Thought for the Day

Verse 4 - People with wealth or high status will always be sought for their favors; therefore, they have many "friends." On the other hand, the poor are avoided since they have nothing to give. Many worldly friendships are superficial and based on selfishness. If a man suddenly becomes poor, and he can no longer afford to do the things he previously did with his friends, they desert him. A true friend loves and values you for who you are, and he remains your friend even when adversity strikes. Jesus is like that. He is always there for us no matter what we are going through. "A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" (Proverbs 17:17).

Verse 5-6 - Many seek favors from a prince. Those who fawn upon a ruler for his favor are not people of conviction, but of greed. They will support his agenda, good or bad, so long as the ruler prospers. Some rulers (or leaders) readily give valuable gifts, such as positions of authority in government, in order to buy the support of powerful people and to strengthen their rule. This is true of people and leaders in all types of government.

Verse 7 - The slothful poor man is shunned because he constantly needs money and help, but never works for it. The poor man who is not slothful is avoided for different reasons. Even if he does not ask for help, those who are close to him know that he needs it. Some may be unable to help; others may not want to help, but all avoid him so they will not feel an obligation to help. If he is out of sight, he is out of mind; and they do not feel guilty for not helping him. We are not to avoid a relative who becomes poor, but we ought to give as the Lord directs us to give. If He does not direct us to help with money, we can help in other ways, such as simply being a friend who listens and prays.

Verse 8 - The secret for overcoming poverty is by walking in God's wisdom. The poor people need Biblical teaching, or they will remain poor and unproductive. Since all the treasures of wisdom are in Jesus (Colossians 2:2-3), we must first point people to Him. The Lord will give them understanding of His principles that will help them overcome poverty.

Verses 9 - Our judicial systems set stern punishments for those who lie under oath. A false witness will not escape punishment. "Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness" (Exodus 23:1).