DEUT812 In one verse of Scripture we read, "there will be no poor among you, for the Lord will surely bless you…" (Deuteronomy 15:4). Yet a bit later we find, "the poor will never cease out of the land" [this verse]. Perhaps the answer to the difficulty is that the first verse is not prophecy but a directive: "No matter what, let there be no poor man within you." [Hebrew בך -- AJL] As you view and appraise yourself, do not see a "poor man"; do not imagine yourself pitiable because the threat of poverty hovers over you and your "inadequate" earnings. The grudging evil eye that… with a miserly glance at your possessions fills you with misgivings, anxiety, or dread--let it be no part of you. If it is there, get rid of it.