When it comes to money we are not nearly as sanctified as we think we are. The most vital nerve in the body is the one that runs from the body to the wallet. There are different types of riches (Luke 16 – unrighteous mammon vs. true riches). You can be poor but have true riches. The Bible does not equate poverty with piety. The Bible does not say it is wrong to be rich.

1 – The poverty of the godless rich

It is possible to have much money and be in poverty.

• A man is poor when he is seeking satisfaction in his money – Rockefeller always wanted just a little more. Solomon learned that money could not buy satisfaction in the heart. It could buy wives but not love.
• A man is poor when money increases trouble (Proverbs 13:16-17). The takers and the givers. The takers eat better, the givers sleep better.
• Money will impoverish you. (Proverbs 23:4) Nobody has the right to making all the money that they can. You will be making money when you ought to be praying, going to church, spending time with your kids or exercising your body. If the goal of your life is to be rich or famous then you are poor. You will not be able to hold on to great riches. (Proverbs 27:24) It is riches in Heaven that you can hold onto to for all eternity.
• Without Jesus you are poor (Proverbs 11:4) Riches are no use in the day of wrath. You cannot bribe the judge!

2 – The prosperity of the godly poor

It is possible to be in poverty and be rich.

• The riches are spiritual riches. These riches are not “pie in the sky”. Don’t laugh!
• The riches are secure (Proverbs 13:11, 22). If you are a good man you leave true riches to those you leave behind.
• The riches are satisfying. Solomon realised this to be true.

Categories: Proverbs