True Wealth, A Father’s Warning

(Encouraged reading: Proverbs 19)

v. 1, 4, 6-7, 10, 17, 22 True Wealth

     “The fear of the Lord leads to life, and he who has it will abide in satisfaction…” (Proverbs 19:23a)

     Solomon was granted wisdom from the Lord, but also given riches and many treasures. Yet, he spoke of the poor more highly than the rich. He taught to honor the poor and treat them well. He probably knew first-hand the deception and length people will go to attain favor, goods, and power from the rich and that the rich rarely have true friends.

     He regarded the poor man as honest and kind and said the poor with integrity is better than a liar. Solomon stressed that riches have no value in comparison to good character. To be poor and have God is much better than being rich without Him.

v. 2-3, 5, 8-9, 11-16, 18-21, 23-29 A Father’s Warning

     “Cease listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.” (Proverbs 19:27)

     Warnings fill this chapter: the liar and false witness will not go unpunished; the scoffer will be judged; the lazy man will go without food; the dishonorable son will cause shame. Solomon mentions these people throughout this book because he yearns for the reader to not follow the same path. He says in verse 18, “Chasten your son while there is hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction.” His heart for his son is that of our Lord’s for us; “For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” Hebrews 12:6.

Application:

     Solomon’s heart for his son is expressed in this chapter. Undoubtedly, each chapter was written to teach his children how to live wisely, righteously, and in fear of the Lord. With their best interest at heart, he did not shy from sharing the consequences of a sinful lifestyle.

     Reflect on the impact you have on others’ lives; do you share hard truths with love and for their good? To whom is God is calling you to pour into? And in what way(s)?

Prayer:

     Lord, let us learn from You and pour it into others from what You teach us. May we have a passion for the truth like Solomon and never back down from sharing it with others.