What is the meaning of Proverbs 19:7? All the brothers of a poor man hate him “All the brothers of a poor man hate him” (Proverbs 19:7) sounds harsh, yet it describes the common, fallen reaction to poverty. • Poverty strips away social power; even family members may distance themselves to avoid perceived obligation (Proverbs 14:20). • Job tasted this rejection when he lamented, “He has removed my brothers far from me” (Job 19:13-19). • Scripture commands the opposite response: “If there is a poor man with you… you shall open your hand” (Deuteronomy 15:7-11) and “Whoever has this world’s goods and sees his brother in need… let us not love with word or tongue, but in deed” (1 John 3:17-18). • James rebukes believers who dishonor the poor while favoring the rich (James 2:5-6). The verse exposes sin, not endorsing it; it warns that even family ties can wither when self-interest rules. How much more do his friends avoid him! If brothers—bound by blood—turn away, “how much more” will optional relationships dry up. • Wealth attracts many companions; poverty thins the crowd (Proverbs 19:4). • The prodigal son learned that fair-weather friends depart when the money is gone (Luke 15:13-16). • Worldly friendship often rests on mutual benefit, yet true friendship loves “at all times” (Proverbs 17:17) and mirrors Christ, who laid down His life for friends (John 15:13). Bullet points that mark counterfeit friendship: – Conditional presence (there when things go well) – Selective listening (quick to leave when needs arise) – Self-protection over self-giving The proverb urges us to test our own hearts: Do we stay when there is no visible return? He may pursue them with pleading, but they are nowhere to be found The poor man “pursue[s] them with pleading,” knocking on doors only to meet silence. • Job begged comforters and received accusations (Job 6:14-23). • David cried, “No one cares for my soul” (Psalm 142:4). • Paul stood alone at his first defense, yet the Lord “stood with me” (2 Timothy 4:16-17). Absent friends intensify suffering, but the Lord hears every plea (Psalm 34:6). Believers are called to embody that divine faithfulness: “Bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). Practical steps: – Notice and initiate; do not wait for the needy to beg. – Offer tangible help: food, work, shelter (Isaiah 58:7). – Give dignity—listen, pray, advocate. summary Proverbs 19:7 lays bare the sad reality that poverty often brings social rejection. Family may withdraw, friends may vanish, and the needy may plead in vain. The verse does not excuse this behavior; it exposes it so God’s people will live differently. Scripture calls us to steady, sacrificial love that reflects Christ—standing with the poor, meeting practical needs, and proving that true friendship endures when every worldly advantage is gone. |
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