While “wealth” is the first word in this verse, this wise saying is really about people. None of us are surprised about the first part – “wealth attracts many friends.” It’s still true today!
Here at Helping Up Mission in East Baltimore, these “friends” might be called a guy’s “posse.” They travel with us as long as we’ve got that “wealth.” But everyone knows what happens when it’s gone – they are, too!
Unfortunately, we know the second part of the verse can also be true – “even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.” This is really a sad scene.
Both lines speak truth and offer negative, even condemning, commentary on human behavior. But just because it’s true doesn’t mean it’s right. And it certainly doesn’t mean it has to be that way!
We all need to regularly check our motives and attitudes. We should treat everyone with respect, whether we think (or know) they have money or not!
The lesson from this wise saying – appreciate people for who they are, not what they have!