Proverbs_23
Scripture
Proverbs 23:4-5
“Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.”
Observation-What does it say?
King Solomon warns people about chasing earthly riches. King Solomon knows the “Big Picture” here. He knows that our time here on earth is just temporary; that you can’t bring those riches with you when you die. And that at any given moment it can be all taken away from you. So don’t let greed get a hold of you. Be content with what you have and focus your attention on more important things.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Where are my priorities?
Where is all my time and efforts being spent in life? Is it chasing after that American dollar and the American dream, (big house, fancy car, and extravagant “toys”)? Or is it chasing after the mission that God has called me to do (helping others in need and multiplying Christ Followers everywhere)?
In my workplace, they hand out overtime like it’s candy. Then you will have co-workers fighting over who gets to work it. They all want to make more money. They are all willing to step on each other to get it too! And for what?! It seems the more they make, the more they spend. And at what cost?! The more time they spend at work, that’s less time they get to spend with their family. But they all look at me like I’m the crazy one whenever I turn down the opportunity to work the overtime. But for me, being a Christian is all about trusting God. Trusting that if I put Him first in everything in life, He will take care of the rest.
“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” Matthew 6:33
Yes, I am thankful that God has blessed me with a job that offers overtime and opportunities to make a little extra money to help out around the house, but I’m also aware that God doesn’t want me to lose my focus (on Him) while doing so. I will work to make a living and even work overtime at times to bring in a little extra, but I do whatever it takes not to neglect my time with God, His family, and my family when doing so and I believe God has been faithful to me because of it.
Life Application
Building God’s Kingdom, not mine.
“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”
Matthew 6:19-21
-Moses Gaddi