“A word fitly spoken is like APPLES OF GOLD in a setting of silver” Proverbs 25v11
As we continue our meditations on wisdom as found in the Book of Proverbs, we come to saying number 8 – in chapter 23 verse 4: “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle”. Some people get wealthy through hard work and favourable circumstances, but others get rich by cleverly manipulating situations and abusing innocent, vulnerable and naïve people because their moral compass is blurred.
While we all want and must provide for our families, (”Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” 1 Timothy 5v8), but when we are obsessed with getting rich our families are deprived of love, time and attention. As the verse warns us, we will also wear ourselves out physically, mentally and spiritually.
Rather listen to what Jesus said in Matthew 6v19: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”.
How do we do this? By obeying the two great commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbour as yourself”.
In conclusion, let us not wear ourselves out in the pursuit of riches because in the light of eternity they will be just a fleeting memory. Also remember cleverness is not wisdom – so be wise and take note of 1 Timothy 6v6: “Godliness with contentment is great gain”.
Amen
Graeme Greenwood