First Things First We are told that "in all labor there is profit" (Proverbs 14:23). While all work is profitable, some efforts have far greater payoffs than others. Making sure that we do those things that have the highest benefit first is important. Talk with no work gets nothing done. All the talk in the world will accomplish nothing if no action is taken. "He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows frivolity (worthless pursuits) will have poverty enough! " (Proverbs 28:19). The Bible tells us that being diligent - day in and day out - will eventually lead to leadership and prosperity: "The hand of the diligent will rule, but the lazy man will be put to forced labor. " (Proverbs 12:24). Is there anything BETTER than riches? There are things that are better than riches and we need to heed the Biblical wisdom regarding them. A good name is better than riches: "A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.'' (Proverbs 22:1). To forge and protect one's reputation is paramount. Wisdom is also better than gold. "How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.'' (Proverbs 16:16). There are things money cannot buy. Parents can give an inheritance but only God can supply a good wife (Proverbs 19:14). And of all the decisions one makes in this lifetime, the choice of a mate is probably the most important in determining one's overall happiness and contentment as well as success. A Illusion Riches can deceive. Their is an illusion they can bring. Wealth SEEMS to protect us like a fortress (Proverbs 10:15) and the rich man thinks money is a high protective wall (Proverbs 18:11). But they do not profit in the day of wrath (Proverbs 11:4). And the person who trusts in his riches will fall (Proverbs 11:28).
"The rich man's wealth is his strong city; The destruction of the poor is their poverty." (Proverbs 10:15) "The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his own esteem." (Proverbs 18:11) "Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death." (Proverbs 11:4) "He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like foliage." (Proverbs 11:28)
The Love of Money Lusting after money and goods can lead to all kinds of sins and sorrows. "Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. "But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." (1Timothy 6:6-10).
Love God and use money as a means to serve and help others. |