At times, circumstances such as illness, war, economic depression or other uncontrollable factors can bring poverty.

But for far too many people, poverty is something they have invited into their lives. “Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction” (Proverbs 13:18 Proverbs 13:18Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuses instruction: but he that regards reproof shall be honored.
American King James Version×). Too much sleep and inaction invites poverty (Proverbs 24:33-34 Proverbs 24:33-34 [33] Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: [34] So shall your poverty come as one that travels; and your want as an armed man.
American King James Version×). “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10 2 Thessalonians 3:10For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
American King James Version×). These words apply to most people.

However the poor are always about, and God expects people to be generous to the needy. It is clear, though, that God does not expect others to feed and care for the one who are able and refuse to help themselves. God’s people are kind and generous, but they are also enjoined to be wise as serpents yet harmless as doves. By helping a lazy person, we only encourage their continued laziness. They have earned poverty, not abundance.