Dealing With Poverty In The Community

DEALING WITH POVERTY IN THE COMMUNITY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 4:32-37

Key Verse: “Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold.” — Acts 4:34

Supporting Texts: Deuteronomy 15:7-11, Proverbs 19:17, Matthew 25:35-40, Galatians 2:10

INTRODUCTION:

Poverty is one of the greatest challenges faced by communities around the world. It is not merely the absence of money but often the absence of opportunities, dignity, and hope. Many societies continue to wrestle with hunger, unemployment, and oppression, which in turn foster crime, hopelessness, and brokenness.

The Bible recognizes the presence of poverty and gives us clear instructions on how to deal with it. God does not want His children to be indifferent to the cries of the needy, but rather to reflect His heart by caring, sharing, and lifting others up. In fact, Jesus declared in Matthew 25 that caring for the poor is directly tied to serving Him.

This theme calls us to practical action and biblical wisdom in dealing with poverty. As a community of believers, we are not only to pray about poverty but also to implement kingdom principles that empower individuals, restore dignity, and create lasting change.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE REALITY OF POVERTY

Poverty is a multidimensional problem that affects individuals spiritually, physically, and socially. To effectively address it, we must first understand its true nature.

a) Definition of Poverty (Proverbs 14:20): Poverty is not only material lack but also a state that limits influence and dignity in society.

b) Spiritual Poverty (Revelation 3:17): True poverty is being without Christ, regardless of material possessions.

c) Community Impact (Proverbs 10:15): Poverty destabilizes communities, leading to violence and social unrest.

d) God’s Concern (Deuteronomy 15:11): God acknowledges the presence of the poor and commands believers to show compassion.

Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16) faced severe lack, but divine intervention turned her situation into abundance.

2. CAUSES OF POVERTY IN COMMUNITIES

Poverty does not occur by accident; it often has identifiable causes, both spiritual and physical.

a) Laziness and Idleness (Proverbs 6:10-11): Refusing to work results in scarcity and need.

b) Injustice and Oppression (Isaiah 10:1-2): Wicked systems and corruption rob communities of their wealth.

c) Disasters and Misfortunes (Job 1:13-19): Calamities can suddenly reduce families to nothing.

d) Ignorance and Lack of Planning (Hosea 4:6): Poor financial management and lack of knowledge perpetuate poverty.

Biblical Example: The prodigal son (Luke 15:11-16) wasted his inheritance and was reduced to poverty because of careless choices.

3. GOD’S PROVISION AGAINST POVERTY

God has already made provision for His children to live above poverty, both spiritually and materially.

a) God as the Source (Philippians 4:19): He provides abundantly according to His riches in glory.

b) The Blessing of Work (2 Thessalonians 3:10): Work is a divine avenue for provision and prosperity.

c) Kingdom Principle of Giving (Luke 6:38): Generosity brings multiplication and divine increase.

d) The Church as a Channel (Acts 2:44-45): The early church ensured no one among them suffered lack.

Biblical Example: The feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:5-13) demonstrates God’s power to multiply limited resources into abundance.

4. PRACTICAL WAYS TO DEAL WITH POVERTY IN THE COMMUNITY

The church and individuals must take practical steps to alleviate poverty in their communities.

a) Generosity and Sharing (Proverbs 22:9): Those who are willing to share with the poor will be blessed by God.

b) Empowerment through Skills (Exodus 35:35): Training and skill development create opportunities for sustainable wealth.

c) Community Development (Nehemiah 2:17-18): Collective effort brings restoration and development to broken societies.

d) Spiritual Intercession (James 5:16): Prayer breaks the spiritual yoke of poverty and opens doors of provision.

Biblical Example: Dorcas (Acts 9:36-39) was remembered for her good works and consistent care for the needy in her community.

CONCLUSION:

Poverty is a reality in many communities, but it is not God’s intention for His children to remain in lack. He has equipped His people with resources, wisdom, and compassion to bring transformation wherever poverty exists.

As the church rises in obedience to God’s Word, showing compassion and practicing generosity, communities will be uplifted, and God’s name will be glorified. The call today is to move from indifference to action, from self-centeredness to generosity, and from fear to faith.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, deliver my community from the stronghold of poverty.

2. Father, give me a heart of compassion towards the needy.

3. Every root of idleness and laziness in my life, be uprooted in Jesus’ name.

4. Lord, let Your provision reach every struggling family around me.

5. Father, raise destiny helpers for the poor in my community.

6. Lord, grant me wisdom to manage resources effectively.

7. Every generational curse of poverty is broken in my life.