“One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.”
There was no real middle class in Solomon’s day. That is why we see over and over his references to the rich and the poor. They were basically the only two options available really until the Industrial Revolution. It is generally believed that over 70% of Americans are considered middle class. Solomon’s contrast is not the typical Christians reality. Many theologians connect the two examples in this verse as one person. This guy takes what he hasn’t earned or deserve from the poor and tries to use it to endear himself to the wealthy, those in power, only to find that his later circumstance is worse than he started out in the first place. There is no win to be found, no matter how much one may want to believe differently, in taking advantage of the less fortunate. Trying to buy someone’s favor is also a waste. No one respects that person. In the end they are left friendless and penniless. Today treat everyone as God’s beloved child and let Him decide your net worth and position. #BeTheEdge
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” James 4:10 NIV