Shall Not Lack

By Hunter Grills

August 18, 2026

Proverbs 28:27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

For many years, I have read this verse and always associated it with monetary value. While there is certainly a financial perspective, I personally believe this verse has a much deeper application.

People are looking for purpose in life and for a reason to exist. The daily grind can become discouraging for one who has no reason or purpose in life.

In Proverbs 28, the Bible says “He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack.” The more that I meditate on this verse, I see that this aligns with other references of God’s love for the poor. When a person follows the commands of the Lord, he receives a reward that only comes from obedience to the Savior. When we love the things that God loves and follow His direction, then we truly will not lack. Giving to the poor, strengthening the weak, and caring for the widows are things that the Lord is interested in.

The second part of the verse reads, “but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.”

Giving to the poor has physical and earthly aspects; however, we should take note of the spiritual and heavenly importance as well. Giving to physical needs is temporal. Sharing the gospel to a poor, lost soul is eternal.

The foundation of giving to the poor must be from a heart of charity. Doing the right thing must be done with the right motives, for the right purpose, and with a love for THE ONE Who loves the poor and died for their sins.

1 Corinthians 13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Reflection—Are we too sensitive to visit the slums?