Psalms 107:40-41 – He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way. Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock.

Being poor in the eyes of the world is a bad thing.  There is the war on poverty that has been going on for over 50 years and still has not eradicated proverty.  Socialism and communism have always tried to distribute the wealth evenly but have never succeeded.  The first experiment at socialism in Acts 2-4 failed as well.  Jesus said you will always have the poor among you no matter how hard you try to fix the problem.

These verses in Psalms tell us that God has contempt upon the princes.  Those with prestige or power who use it to oppress the poor will reap what they sow.  I would argue the average socialist abuses the poor worse than the average capitalist.  The socialist uses his power over the poor, gained by promises, to get them to give up their rights.  In the end, the poor suffer more for the few freebies they get than if they just worked for it.  The capitalist and the worker both want to make money and their needs will balance each other.

God’s view of the poor is a lot different than the world.  God sets the poor on high or elevates him in spiritual matters.  What the poor gives up in worldly possessions they often get back in eternal rewards if they truly seek God and put his kingdom first in their lives.  God also delivers the poor from much of the affliction.  That is not always the case with the rich.  Just look at the average celebrity and you see nothing but wandering in the way with no hope.  They live miserable lives.  The poor, godly family has the blessings of God with their olive plants all around the table.  They have a progeny that pays dividends in this life with godly children and grandchildren.  Better is a dinner of herbs than a stalled ox and hatred and strife in the home.

So count your blessings if you are poor.  I would rather have a cottage below with a little silver or gold than have the contempt of God.  God always meets the needs of his saints.  He just does not always meet all our wants.  It truly is a blessing to be poor and having contentment in your heart and soul.  Thank God for the blessing of being poor today.