What the Bible Says About the Haves and the Have-Nots
Lesallan | September 21, 2026
The Bible speaks clearly and consistently about the divide between those who have and those who have not. Scripture does not frame this divide politically but spiritually, morally, and relationally. Wealth is never condemned in itself, and poverty is never romanticized. Instead, the Bible emphasizes that God defends the poor, warns the rich, and calls all people to justice, humility, and generosity.
God’s Heart for the Poor (“the Have-Nots”)
Throughout Scripture, God expresses deep concern for the poor, the oppressed, and the vulnerable. Israel was commanded to leave portions of their harvest for those in need (Leviticus 19:9–10, New International Version [NIV]). God instructs His people to defend and rescue the weak and needy (Psalm 82:3–4, NIV). Acts of kindness toward the poor are viewed as acts of kindness toward God Himself (Proverbs 19:17, NIV).
Jesus identifies personally with the poor, teaching that whatever is done for “the least of these” is done for Him (Matthew 25:40, NIV). The New Testament further reveals that God has chosen the poor to be “rich in faith” (James 2:5, NIV).
God’s Warnings to the Rich (“the Haves”)
While wealth is not condemned, Scripture warns of its spiritual dangers. Wealth can lead to pride and forgetfulness of God, who is the true source of all provision (Deuteronomy 8:18, NIV). Jesus teaches that one cannot serve both God and money (Matthew 6:24, NIV) and warns that wealth can hinder spiritual growth (Matthew 19:24, NIV).
The apostle Paul cautions that the love of money leads to harmful desires and spiritual ruin (1 Timothy 6:9–10, NIV). Jesus’ parable of the rich fool illustrates the danger of storing up earthly treasure while neglecting spiritual riches (Luke 12:16–21, NIV).
Responsibilities of the Rich
Those who possess resources are commanded to use them for good. Scripture teaches believers to honor God with their wealth (Proverbs 3:9, NIV) and instructs the rich to be generous and willing to share (1 Timothy 6:17–18, NIV). Oppressing the poor is condemned as an offense against God Himself (Proverbs 14:31, NIV).
God’s Sovereignty Over Both Wealth and Poverty
The Bible teaches that God is ultimately sovereign over human circumstances. He is the One who “makes poor and rich,” who “brings low and exalts” (1 Samuel 2:7, NIV). This truth reminds believers that neither wealth nor poverty defines a person’s worth—God does.
The Eternal Perspective
Earthly wealth is temporary, but spiritual wealth is eternal. Jesus instructs His followers to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33, NIV). The early church modeled radical generosity, ensuring that “there was no needy one among them” (Acts 4:34–35, NIV).
Conclusion
The Bible’s message regarding the haves and have-nots is clear:
- Wealth is a blessing, but also a test.
- The poor are honored and protected by God.
- The rich are warned to remain humble, generous, and dependent on God.
- Justice, compassion, and generosity are essential marks of God’s people.
References:
Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978).
https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-International-Version-NIV-Bible
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