Twelve years of ministry in 14 different countries has given me the opportunity to be with many people groups in a variety of situations and contexts. I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. I have witnessed miracles, deliverances, and powerful moves of God. However, the one thing that has always perplexed me is the degradation of humanity through the bondage of poverty. Something in me longs for justice in this area.

Living in the prosperous West can be somewhat like living in a bubble when compared to the rest of the world. I don’t say that to incite guilt, it’s just the way it is. When it comes to material possessions, we are so far advanced beyond every other culture and society that it is hard to believe. We take so much for granted, and if we are not careful we can easily become deluded and ungrateful.

Our confrontation with poverty affords us the opportunity to gain a broader perspective on life, connect with the struggles of others, view the fallen human condition for what it is, and grasp the power of Truth to redeem and restore. I have also learned that without a Scriptural revelation to form a foundation of understanding, all of our efforts to address poverty will be frustrated, exploited, and fruitless. In the process, we realize our own powerlessness to fill the void and are forced to search deeper in pursuit of answers that will bring lasting solutions.

“For the poor will never cease out of the land…” (Deuteronomy 15:11).

“For you always have the poor among you…” (Matthew 26:11)

These Scripture have formed my starting point. Not from a fatalistic standpoint, but a realization that lack is part of the fallen, human condition. Dealing with it is always going to be filled with heartache, tragedy, frustration, disappointment, and even anger. I think those feelings are part of the heart of God and should be the impetus that keeps us involved in the ministry of bringing hope and liberty through truth to those in need.

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