Which other Proverbs emphasize justice and fairness towards the poor? Foundation Verse: Proverbs 22:16 “Oppressing the poor to enrich oneself or giving gifts to the rich will surely lead to poverty.” Justice Woven Through Proverbs 14–19 • 14:21 – “He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who is kind to the poor.” • 14:31 – “He who oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.” • 17:5 – “Whoever mocks the poor insults his Maker; whoever rejoices in calamity will not go unpunished.” • 19:17 – “Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.” • 19:22 – “Loving devotion makes a person attractive, and it is better to be poor than a liar.” • 19:23 (contrast) – The fear of the LORD leads to life; mistreating the vulnerable undermines that life. Justice Highlighted in Proverbs 21–24 • 21:13 – “Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too shall cry out and receive no answer.” • 22:22-23 – “Do not rob the poor because they are poor, and do not crush the afflicted at the gate; for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them.” • 23:10-11 – “Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.” • 24:11-12 – “Rescue those being led away to death… Will He not repay each man according to his deeds?” (illustrates God’s accountability when we ignore injustice). Justice Emphasized in Proverbs 28–31 • 28:3 – “A destitute leader who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain that leaves no food.” • 28:8 – “He who increases his wealth by interest and usury gathers it for one who shows kindness to the poor.” • 28:27 – “Whoever gives to the poor will not be in need, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses.” • 29:7 – “The righteous consider the cause of the poor, but the wicked have no regard for such concerns.” • 29:13 – “The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: the LORD gives sight to the eyes of both.” • 31:8-9 – “Open your mouth for those with no voice, for the justice of all the dispossessed. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the poor and needy.” • 31:20 – “She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.” Connecting the Threads • God identifies with the poor; mistreating them is a direct offense against Him (14:31; 17:5). • Justice is not optional; it is woven into fearing the LORD and true wisdom (19:23; 24:11-12). • Oppression backfires—poverty, divine opposition, and eventual loss follow exploitation (22:16; 28:8). • Generosity brings divine blessing and protection (19:17; 28:27). • Leadership and speech are gauged by advocacy for the vulnerable (29:7; 31:8-9). Living the Wisdom • Honor God by treating every person—especially the poor—with dignity and practical help. • Leverage resources and influence to defend, not exploit. • Trust that God sees, remembers, and repays every act of compassion or injustice (22:23; 28:27). |
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