Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them – Psalm 107:5
This verse shows what we already know – physical poverty can lead to soul poverty. Yes, when people do not have enough to eat and drink, they get desperate, and they are more likely to do dastardly things. So, when we see people in the ‘hood’ or in a ‘favela’ do dastardly and dangerous things, it is that they are inherently bad but that their situation has led to soul poverty which has caused them to do bad things! Now, this condition is not just limited to those living in poverty. Is it not easier for the enemy of our soul to lie to us and cause us to believe wild things when we are drained? Also, consider that the enemy tempted Jesus when he was hungry and thirsty in the wilderness. Thus, we should HALT when we are Hungry, Angry, Lonely and Tired. Additionally, it is likely our FAULT when we act when Frustrated, Angry, Upset, Lonely, or Tired. No one is immune to making bad decisions and no one gets it right all the time! Thus, rather than judge those who are hungry and thirsty (living in poverty) for bad behavior, we are better served trying to remove the conditions that encourage such behaviors in the first place so we can live more harmoniously together.
I will not dismiss the poor but choose to care for those who are hurting
SuperChamp 