In one way or another, we can all relate to Psalm 86:1 where David
says, “I am poor and needy.” Even the richest among us should understand that
poverty and need relate more to the spirit than to the wallet. When billionaire
Rich DeVos speaks to groups he often says, “I’m just a sinner saved by grace.”
Psalm 86 tells us that the help God provides is not measured by a
monetary ledger sheet. When we acknowledge that we are poor and needy, it’s not
so God will lavish material riches on us. No, we do so to open the door to
other, more valuable treasures.
Here’s what God does for the poor and needy. He will “preserve” our
lives and “save” all those who trust in Him (v.2). He will be “merciful” and
“ready to forgive” (vv.3,5). He will listen to and answer prayer (vv.6-7).
But we’re not to take God’s blessings without giving back. We have a
responsibility to learn God’s ways, walk in His truth, “fear [God’s] name,”
praise the Lord, and “glorify [His] name” (vv.11-12).
Do you consider yourself among the “poor and needy”? If so, welcome to
the club. Let’s not forget all the spiritual blessings God has for us and the
godly response we should have toward His generosity.
The poorest man is he whose only wealth is money. (RBC)
