Proverbs 28:27 “Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.”

If Israel fully obeyed this command, there would be no poverty, hunger or homelessness within their borders.

Principle: Abolishing poverty can be accomplished if everybody accepts the challenge.

God, through Solomon (the richest person in the world at that time), directed all His followers to participate by helping the poor, housing the homeless and feeding the hungry.

Throughout the Bible, God gave specific instructions to eradicate poverty in Israel.

Bill Gates, co-founder and former chairman of the board of Microsoft, was at one time the richest person in the world. He is making a dent in helping the world’s poor through literacy, healthcare and equal opportunity initiatives.

Take the challenge. Hire and train a homeless person. It’ll take special care and will be more time-consuming than usual. Pay more than the minimum wage. Co-sign for the rental of a place near work and pay the first and the last month’s rent. Make this employee a doctor and a dentist appointment and pay the bill but require them to pay it back.

Be patient. Allow for reversion. He/she will bless you for it and so will God.

Discussion:

1. What are the difficulties you face in hiring a homeless person?

2. What are realistic spiritual desires for a new employee in this category?

3. When will you take this challenge? Set a realistic time frame.