The Golden Rule for Ears

(Proverbs 21:13 KJV)  Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.

This is a verse I need to read on a regular basis.  That is why reading through Proverbs every month has value.  The lessons keep coming up.  I am one who “stoppeth” (shuts NASB) (331) my ears to the “cry” (2201/7121) of the “poor” (1800b).  It is almost a natural reaction.  My attitude goes beyond discernment.  There is a place for discernment but there is also a place for compassion.  A verse comes to mind that has different words but the attitude behind it is the same.

(1 Corinthians 8:1 KJV)  Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.

This verse is the pin prick that keeps me from being puffed up.

Why is it so important to remember this and live by it?  This follows the thought of Jesus when He says those who do not forgive will not be forgiven. 

(Matthew 6:14-15 KJV)  For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:  But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

By ignoring the poor we risk not being “heard” (answered NASB) (6030a) by God.  This is a twist of the golden rule that explains why that rule is so important.

So?  Don’t turn off your discernment, turn on your compassion.  You may need to make a conscious effort.  Make the effort.  Following Jesus is a walk of balance not a hop of single focus.