Proverbs 19:4-7 Wealth makes many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour. All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.
Verse 7 continues the theme, painting an even more painful picture. Not only are strangers or neighbours distant from the poor man, but even his own brothers, his family, turn away from him. Their rejection is not just emotional but practical; they withdraw their support, their presence, and their affection. The word ‘hate’ here can be understood as a deep rejection or abandonment.
And if even his brothers despise him, how much more easily do his so-called friends disappear? When his poverty becomes evident, those who once enjoyed his company quickly distance themselves. He pursues them with words, perhaps pleading for help, or simply seeking companionship, but they do not answer. They are “wanting to him” – they are absent, unavailable, unwilling.
This verse shows the emotional and relational suffering of poverty. The poor are often not just financially disadvantaged; they are socially isolated, emotionally abandoned, and relationally ignored. The pain is compounded when it comes from those who should love and care for them the most.
These verses challenge us to consider our own hearts. Do we gravitate toward people based on what they can offer us? Do we show more honour to the rich than to the poor? Scripture commands us otherwise: “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons… Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom?” (James 2:1,5)
Jesus Himself came not with riches but in humility. He befriended the poor, the outcast, the sinner, those whom society often rejects. In doing so, He revealed the heart of God, who “raises the poor out of the dust” (Ps. 113:7) and judges not by wealth, but by righteousness.
Living the Word 