In His ImageSample

“Poverty is the result of relationships that do not work, that are not just, that are not for life, that are not harmonious or enjoyable. Poverty is the absence of shalom in all its meanings.” 
—Bryant L Myers, Walking with the Poor

Spiritual dysfunction leads to material problems. This alerts us to the fact that there can be no lasting solution to material and social issues which do not pay attention to the spiritual realm. 

Remember the story of Tom and Jimmy? 

Specifically referencing Genesis, the CCM trainer was asking whether God had provided for what he created. Was vegetation placed in a habitat? Were animals provided with food? Were humans given a place to flourish? In every case, the answer was positive. 

This made the boys think: If God has a purpose for us, why are we living with our uncle while our parents’ land lies waste? Driven by this impulse, they returned to the family plot. They built a hut and began to cultivate the land. Soon they were able to build a second hut and their siblings also returned. Tom and Jimmy became the providers for Agnes, Stephen, and their grandmother too. God’s word was bearing fruit in their lives and on their land.