Learning to trust God despite the headlines Inequality and Poverty

Shock figures show 4,701 children in Bromsgrove District are 'living in poverty'         Bromsgrove Standard 16th May 2019

Luke 16 9 I tell you, use the riches of this world to help others. In that way, you will make friends for yourselves. Then when your riches are gone, you will be welcomed into your eternal home in heaven.

13 “No one can serve two masters at the same time 13 “No one can serve two masters at the same time. Either you will hate one of them and love the other. Or you will be faithful to one and dislike the other. You can’t serve God and money at the same time.” 24 So the rich man called out, ‘Father Abraham! Have pity on me! Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water. Then he can cool my tongue with it. I am in terrible pain in this fire.’

Luke 21 As Jesus looked up, he saw rich people putting their gifts into the temple offering boxes. 2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 3 …Jesus said. “That poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4 All these other people gave a lot because they are rich. But even though she is poor, she put in everything. She had nothing left to live on.”

James 2 Hasn’t God chosen those who are poor in the world’s eyes to be rich in faith? Hasn’t he chosen them to receive the kingdom? Hasn’t he promised it to those who love him? 6 But you have disrespected poor people… 8 The royal law is found in Scripture. It says, “Love your neighbour as you love yourself.”... 13 Those who have not shown mercy will not receive mercy when they are judged. To show mercy is better than to judge.

So what? Reflect – what is my attitude and behaviour like? Rejoice – God has a plan, purpose and provides Repent – where am I out of step with God’s teaching? Remember – to see people as God does Required – what do you want of me?