Wisdom’s Way to Wealth
Proverbs 8:12 (NLT) “I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. 13 All who fear the Lord will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech. 14 Common sense and success belong to me. Insight and strength are mine.15 Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees.16 Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. 17 “I love all who love me. Those who search will surely find me. 18 I have riches and honor, as well as enduring wealth and justice. 19 My gifts are better than gold, even the purest gold, my wages better than sterling silver! 20 I walk in righteousness, in paths of justice. 21 Those who love me inherit wealth. I will fill their treasuries."
There is a "right" way to approach the subject of wealth and material blessings. Through wisdom, we can understand how to walk in God's blessings while maintaining a godly and humble attitude. For believers in Christ, material success is a by-product of living according to God's word. Putting first things first is one of the themes of the Book of Proverbs.
Discussions and teachings that focus solely on money, without regard for greater principles, miss the mark of God's agenda. This approach leads to foolishness. It's very convenient to latch onto scriptures that promise benefits, while ignoring scriptures that call us to responsibility in Christ. If we focus on biblical responsibility, the benefits will follow.
Proverbs 8:35-36 confirms the importance of following God’s wisdom: "For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But those who miss me injure themselves. All who hate me love death."
________________
Reflection Question: What 1-3 items that you should take responsibility for right now?
