Using and Abusing Money

Yes, money is shown to be a blessing in Proverbs. Yet Proverbs also warns people against trusting in it. Wealth, for example, provides security in a rich person's imagination. But money can't prevent a rich person from dying. Also, there are other things that are far more important that getting money. Wisdom, for example, is more valuable. People may relocate for a better job, but seldom for a better church. The fear of God, love, humility, peace, a good spouse, honesty and reputation are better than money. Poverty can be frightening when needs constantly overwhelm resources. Poverty repels friends and invites oppression. Wealth also brings disadvantages. For example, you never really know who your friends are. Wealth interferes with your relationships with others. Rich people can become tempted to answer a poor person harshly. They can consider themselves to be experts in all areas of life. But then a person who really does know may not correct them because of the obstacle of the rich person's riches. The wise person desires enough to meet his needs, not to meet any need. That, then, is what we should want for other people too. Contentment and godliness are great gain.