Day 36: The Un-Won War

Over 40 years ago, President Lyndon Baines Johnson declared war on poverty in his first State of the Union address. Here is a short clip of his words on the issue:



"Unfortunately, many Americans live on the outskirts of hope--some because of their poverty, and some because of their color, and all too many because of both. Our task is to help replace their despair with opportunity.

This administration today, here and now, declares unconditional war on poverty in America. I urge this Congress and all Americans to join with me in that effort.

It will not be a short or easy struggle, no single weapon or strategy will suffice, but we shall not rest until that war is won."
[Read or hear LBJ's entire speech at americanrhetoric.com.]


So what happened to this war on poverty? Why is the war still un-won?

I'm not trying to make any sort of political statement. I've just been thinking about the origins and effects of poverty lately. Then I read a part of 1 Samuel 2 this morning that shed some light:

"The LORD sends poverty and wealth;
he humbles and he exalts."

John Gill, respected 18th century theologian, helps translate the meaning of this passage. He writes:

"That there is such a difference among men in general, that some should be poor, and others rich, is owing to the wise providence of God, that men may be dependent on one another."

That makes sense. If a person is in poverty, the very next verse in 1 Samuel tells how the LORD will lift them up. But if a person is more in wealth, he too must submit to the Giver of those blessings and share with those less fortunate. God is infinitely wise over both.

Rightly enacted, this situation does create a dependence that shows sacrificial love on both ends. The war on poverty may be long-running, but in the meantime, I can look to the God who created us all and share the things He has given me.

It's hard. But it's good.