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How Terrible To Be Poor
A Christian poem by Greta Zwaan that reminds us that true riches are not found in money or possessions, but in faith, God's love, and the promise of eternal life.
When we think of being poor, we often think of someone who has very little money or few possessions. We may wonder how they manage without the comforts that so many of us take for granted. Yet this poem reminds us that there is another kind of wealth, one that money cannot buy.
In How Terrible To Be Poor, Greta Zwaan helps us look at riches from a different perspective. While the world may measure success by what we own, God sees the value of our faith and our relationship with Him. A person may have very little in material possessions and still be rich in the blessings that matter most.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:19-20 that earthly treasures do not last, but treasures stored in heaven are everlasting. As you read this poem, consider what truly makes a person rich. Is it what we have accumulated here on earth, or the faith, love, and hope we carry in our hearts?
Updated October 10, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
How Terrible To Be Poor
Poet: Greta Zwaan, © 2019
How devastating to be poor, not having wealth on earth,
No cause to brag of all you own, to be of little worth.
No mansion to adorn with lights, no gardens to display,
No servants who would call you "Sir" and do what e're you say.
No limousine to drive in style with chauffeur at the wheel,
No smart, impressive clothes to wear, no luxury appeal.
No bank accounts with great assets, no office to address,
No friends to envy all you own and no one to impress.
You are so poor you only have what God gives you each day;
Faith to draw you close to Him when e're you kneel to pray.
A promise that His strength is yours, a knowledge that He's there,
A hand of love to hold you up where you are free of care.
You own no lands, you have no claims but you are royalty,
You are a child of God the King, eternal Majesty!
He recognizes what you're worth – a jewel for heaven's crown,
You are a witness to His love, your feet on holy ground.
Your popularity on earth does not exist for you,
But God's own angels guide your path when day begins anew.
Your needs supplied, your goal is set, and you are heaven bound,
Your earthly ties do not entice for heavenly wealth you've found.
All earth's values will decay so no one can lay claim,
But poverty exists no more when you have Jesus’ name!
Key Reflections In This Poem
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True Riches Are Not Measured by Money
The world often measures success by wealth and possessions. But this poem reminds us that faith, love, and a relationship with God are treasures that money cannot buy.
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God Knows Our True Worth
We do not need expensive possessions or an important position to be valuable. God sees each of us as precious, regardless of how much or how little we own.
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Faith Gives Us Strength
Life may not always provide everything we want, but faith can help us face each day. Knowing that God is with us brings comfort and hope during difficult times.
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Earthly Possessions Do Not Last
Money, property, and material things can be lost or taken away. The promises of God remind us to focus on what has lasting value.
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Heaven Offers Eternal Riches
The poem reminds us that our time on earth is temporary. Through faith in Jesus, we have the hope of eternal life and blessings beyond anything this world can offer.
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Conclusion
How Terrible To Be Poor reminds us that the greatest treasures in life cannot be counted in dollars or measured by what we own. A person may have very little in the eyes of the world, yet possess a richness of faith, hope, and love that no amount of money could ever replace.
As we go through life, may we remember to be thankful for what God has given us and to place our trust in Him rather than in earthly possessions. Wealth may come and go, but God's love and His promises remain. And when we keep our hearts focused on Him, we discover riches that will last for eternity.
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