In this third foundational episode, we look at the roots of poverty. If we provide food, health, and education to people living in poverty, will we solve the problem? Or does poverty run deeper?
Key thoughts:
- Our understanding of how life works must be defined by God. (Romans 12:2)
- When we don’t listen to what God says about how life works, poverty happens somewhere. (Matthew 12:33-35)
- Our quality of life is based on the behaviors of ourselves and those around us, and those behaviors are ultimately rooted in beliefs and values.
- We must address the root causes of poverty—beliefs and values—in order to make lasting change.
- Before pointing fingers, American Christians should examine our own alignment to biblical values.
Mentioned in this episode:
- unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons
- Take our Facebook quiz
- Order a copy of the Poverty Unlocked 4-week curriculum
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Hi Wendy,
Your point 5 really resonates. I’m familiar with the study you quoted that was discussed in unChristian and it broke my heart to see it. But it’s as simple as this — at the end of my day, was I an effective ambassador of Christ? And when I remember getting impatient with the 16-year-old cashier having trouble with her register, or cutting somebody off in traffic, or failing to check on the neighbor who is sick….well, some days I don’t want to know the answer to that question. My actions did indeed contribute to someone else’s poverty.
Absolutely terrific! Great work Wendy! These are some of the best, most pithy podcasts I’ve heard that articulate the worldview about which we so desperately need to dialogue. May the Lord bless your efforts, the dialogues they stimulate and inspire many unto clear and good action for His Kingdom.
Shawn Gardner
Wow, thank you for your intentionality, time, and extensive effort in preparation. What a blessing of conviction! Keep up the Kingdom work of removing the veil covering the source of worldview poverty.