Wealth and Wisdom

For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.      Ecclesiastes 7:12 

Some Americans live with a quiet reality most in the world does not enjoy… having enough money! Money solves many problems. However, you may have discovered it does not solve ALL of them. There are plenty of situations where money is worthless, and knowledge is priceless. For example, a big budget can facilitate a war, yet only wisdom can broker peace. 

The journey of a wisdom seeker is the journey of a God seeker. The very essence of God’s character is Truth. As you invite Him ever deeper into your life, supernatural understanding permeates your thinking and behavior. His Spirit transforms everyone and everything it touches. Followers of Christ are familiar with the reality of God’s transforming power. “If you abide in my word, you are my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32).  

Wisdom in life’s circumstances, including handling your finances, is the result of acquaintance with God. “Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding” (Psalm 111:10). It is true for both people and nations! Good financial management provides a level of security, but peace depends on gaining understanding through a relationship with God. 

Pray for America’s leaders to seek God in their work, making decisions in light of His principles. Ask the Lord to guide those in positions of authority to make changes in laws and policies that will lead the nation into both financial security and peace among citizens. Pray for Americans to work as hard to foster wisdom as they do to cultivate wealth.  

Today’s Verse: Ecclesiastes 7:12 

For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, 
    and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: Proverbs 3:13-22  

Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, 
    and the one who gets understanding, 
14 for the gain from her is better than gain from silver 
    and her profit better than gold. 
15 She is more precious than jewels, 
    and nothing you desire can compare with her. 
16 Long life is in her right hand; 
    in her left hand are riches and honor. 
17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, 
    and all her paths are peace. 
18 She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; 
    those who hold her fast are called blessed. 

19 The Lord by wisdom founded the earth; 
    by understanding he established the heavens; 
20 by his knowledge the deeps broke open, 
    and the clouds drop down the dew. 

21 My son, do not lose sight of these— 
    keep sound wisdom and discretion, 
22 and they will be life for your soul 
    and adornment for your neck. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.


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