Topical Bible: The Poor: Condition of, often Results From: Bad Company

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The condition of poverty is a multifaceted issue addressed throughout the Bible, with various causes and contributing factors. One significant factor highlighted in Scripture is the influence of bad company, which can lead to or exacerbate the state of poverty. The Bible provides numerous warnings about the dangers of associating with those who engage in unrighteous or foolish behavior, as such associations can lead to detrimental outcomes, including financial ruin.

Influence of Bad Company

The Book of Proverbs, known for its wisdom literature, frequently addresses the impact of one's companions on their life circumstances. Proverbs 13:20 states, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." This verse underscores the principle that the company one keeps can have a profound effect on their life, including their financial well-being. Associating with fools—those who lack wisdom and engage in reckless behavior—can lead to harm, including poverty.

Similarly, Proverbs 28:19 warns, "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty." This proverb contrasts the diligent worker with those who pursue unrealistic or foolish endeavors, often influenced by bad company, resulting in poverty.

Moral and Spiritual Consequences

The New Testament also addresses the influence of bad company, particularly in the context of moral and spiritual consequences that can lead to material poverty. In 1 Corinthians 15:33 , the Apostle Paul cautions, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" This warning highlights the corrupting influence of immoral associations, which can lead to poor decision-making and, ultimately, financial distress.

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a righteous and disciplined life, as seen in Proverbs 23:20-21 : "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat. For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags." Here, the text warns against the company of those who indulge in excess, as such behavior can lead to poverty.

Examples from Scripture

The narrative of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32 provides a vivid illustration of how bad company and poor choices can lead to poverty. The younger son squanders his inheritance on reckless living, influenced by those who do not have his best interests at heart. His eventual destitution serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of associating with those who encourage wasteful and sinful behavior.

In the Old Testament, the account of Rehoboam, Solomon's son, in 1 Kings 12:1-19, demonstrates how listening to unwise counsel can lead to disastrous outcomes. Rehoboam's decision to follow the advice of his peers rather than the elders resulted in the division of the kingdom, illustrating the broader principle that bad company can lead to ruin.

Practical Implications

The biblical teachings on the influence of bad company serve as a practical guide for believers, encouraging them to choose their associations wisely. By surrounding themselves with those who uphold godly principles and wisdom, individuals can avoid the pitfalls that lead to poverty. The Scriptures advocate for a life of diligence, righteousness, and discernment, warning against the dangers of aligning with those who may lead one astray.

In summary, the Bible presents a clear message that bad company can be a significant factor in the condition of poverty. Through its teachings, believers are urged to seek the companionship of the wise and righteous, thereby fostering a life that is both spiritually and materially prosperous.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 28:19
He that tills his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that follows after vain persons shall have poverty enough.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Only Chapter Treats of the Great Importance of Perseverance in ...
... not remaining in the first mansions, yet often lack determination to quit their
present condition by avoiding ... the devils cause in the poor soul! ...
/.../teresa/the interior castle or the mansions/only chapter treats of the.htm

Heb. 4:14 Our Profession
... was one of "peace" to His poor fallen Apostles ... season, but does no real good, and
often results in bringing ... myriads of true Christians in this condition, who go ...
/.../the upper room being a few truths for the times/chapter xii heb 4 14 our.htm

The Christian Service
... the whole world and every class and condition of men. ... work in which the individual
is interested often leads to ... institutions for the care of the poor, the blind ...
/.../sell/studies in the life of the christian/study viii the christian service.htm

Chapter thirty
... that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou ... many times been in just such
a condition, and I ... world's great treasure of song been so often held far ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sheldon/in his steps/chapter thirty.htm

Prison Experiences for Conscience' Sake --Our Prison
... Poor PD fell out from exhaustion and did not come in ... in the city, where he could
see us often; and that ... of mind may be enhanced by my feeble condition of health ...
/.../prison experiences for conscience sakeour.htm

The Government of India.
... the Mahrattas in 1803 he found the poor old blind ... to a brief statement regarding
its condition under our ... Often complaints have been made that successive home ...
/.../chapter xxxi the government of.htm

Sad Fasts Changed to Glad Feasts
... Another change of condition follows: scattering is turned ... Whereas they become poor,
and were half-starved ... covenant blessings of grace, God often bestows the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/sad fasts changed to glad.htm

Thy Rod and Thy Staff they Comfort Me.
... It would be a poor exchange and a paltry ... by them and through them alone we are often
positively driven ... really to determine our lot and condition throughout the ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/callan/the shepherd of my soul/viii thy rod and thy.htm

The Fulton St. Prayer Meeting.
... not come, and the cloud seemed darker, and the poor man got ... I am sure He must come
here very often, doesn't ... night, though I had never told him of my condition. ...
/.../various/the wonders of prayer/the fulton st prayer meeting.htm

The Puritan Beginnings of the Church in virginia ---Its Decline ...
... trees for a pulpit, afterward in a poor shanty of ... need of repairs, was put into good
condition, and a ... In a report which has been often quoted, Governor Berkeley ...
/.../bacon/a history of american christianity/chapter v the puritan beginnings.htm