This poem draws from the heart of Psalm 41, where David, king of Israel and a man after God's own heart, pronounces blessing on those who show consideration to the poor. Though a ruler with power and wealth, David understood that divine favor rests not on status or strength, but on compassion—especially toward the weak and afflicted.
Yet even he confesses: “O Lord, be gracious to me; heal my soul, for I have sinned against You” (Psalm 41:4), suggesting that he had fallen short of the very mercy he commended.
If David—God’s anointed, shepherd-king, and psalmist—recognized the need to care for the poor and repented when he failed, how much more should we, who follow the crucified and risen Christ? This poem is a plea to remember the lowly, to walk humbly, and to bless others as we have been blessed.
Always Remember the Poor
Blessed is the man whoConsiders the weak and the poor;
Who has regard for the helpless;
Who cares for them as would a Savior.
In a time of trouble;
Amidst adversity and strife,
The Lord will surely protect him;
The Lord will preserve his very life!
O such a man,
What is his worth?
He will be called blessed
Upon the earth!
Yet as for me, I said
“O LORD!
Have mercy on me!
Heal my soul,
For I have sinned against Thee.”
And in His Word I read,
“Who shows mercy to the poor,
To the Ancient of Days they lend!
And the LORD will reward their deeds;
The LORD will repay all they spend.”
LORD please help me henceforth
To freely lend and not oppress
The helpless, the needy and poor,
And in blessing them, I shall be blessed!
Next poem: Returns on Investment
Author: Jerry Dan Deutschendorf
from: Warnings to the 'Christian' Church in America