However, many poor people are far from lazy. For example, consider the man who wrote: “Down to this very hour we continue to hunger and also to thirst and to be scantily clothed and to be knocked about and to be homeless.” (1 Corinthians 4:11) An incurable loafer? Hardly. Those words were penned by the apostle Paul. He chose to live a life of limited economic means so that he could better pursue the Christian ministry. Some of his deprivations were also due to circumstances beyond his control, such as religious persecution.

Though he himself was low on provisions at times, the apostle Paul never condoned or resorted to dishonesty. Instead, he wrote: “Let the stealer steal no more, but rather let him do hard work, doing with his hands what is good work, that he may have something to distribute to someone in need.”​—Ephesians 4:28.

As a minister of God, the apostle Paul experienced such hardships as ‘hunger and thirst, abstinence from food, cold, and nakedness.’ (2 Corinthians 11:27) Surely, Paul must have wondered how he would survive! But after some 25 years of Christian experience, he could write: “I know indeed how to be low on provisions, I know indeed how to have an abundance. In everything and in all circumstances I have learned the secret of both how to be full and how to hunger, both how to have an abundance and how to suffer want. For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me.” (Philippians 4:12, 13) Yes, Paul trusted in God.

Paul realized that Scriptural principles are not empty, idealistic words. They are instructions from a living God eager to help and support those seeking to apply them. An ancient prophet said: “As regards Jehovah, his eyes are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him.”​—2 Chronicles 16:9.

True, those trusting in God may still experience economic pressures, as did the apostle Paul. But never do they need to resort to breaking God’s laws in order to survive economically. Said the psalmist David: “A young man I used to be, I have also grown old, and yet I have not seen anyone righteous left entirely, nor his offspring looking for bread.” (Psalm 37:25) Yes, God cares for and blesses those who put his interests first in their lives.​—Matthew 6:25-33.