When is Enough, Enough?
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…Ā “Donāt wear yourself out trying to get rich.Ā Be wise enough to know when to quit.
In the blink of an eye wealth disappears,Ā for it will sprout wingsĀ and fly away like an eagle.” Proverbs 23:4,5 NLT
It seems that this ancient proverb is one that speaks to people today. When I read it, I think of the age old question supposedly asked to the industrialist John D. Rockefeller, “How much money does it take to be happy?” His response, “Just a little more.”
Actually when I read, “Be wise enough to know when to quit” I thought it was a good justification for retirement! However that points to the key issue that we see in these verses and other scriptures. This issue is not financial security, it is our focus in life, it is where we place our trust. “…if riches increase, set not your heart on them.” (Psalm 62:10 ESV)
“Trying to get rich” carries a sense of discontented striving. The focus is on attaining and achieving. It drives individuals to making poor decisions and being taken captive by those who are more than willing to talk them into investments that promise much, but deliver little. I think of hearing of professional athletes who had millions of dollars, losing it all. Paul wrote to Timothy and reminded him, “…true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth.” (1 Timothy 6:6 NLT) We also read, “Cease striving and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10 NASB)
We also, need to ask ourselves, “why do we do what we do?” Is it just to attain a living, to pay bills, to acquire financial security? Does our work, focus and efforts have more meaning than just the paycheck whenever it comes. A friend of mine, shares financial principles on, “earning money, to make a difference.” As a result, the goal of attaining financial blessing is to be a blessing, not just a higher standard of living.
Finally, trust in the Lord gives the greatest security in our life. Wealth may diminish, health may fail, but we have a spirit that will live on for eternity. Next week, I will lead a memorial service for an elderly woman Debbie and I have known for 40 years. Her children shared with me as she succumbed the impairment of Alzheimers she would say, “Most days, I don’t know who I am, I don’t know where I am, I don’t know what I’m doing, but I know Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior!” Wow! That’s true peace and security.
Prayer for today… Ā Lord thank You for being our source of life and giving us the ability to attain financial security as we live according to Your Word. Thank You we can live at peace, to rest in Your care and to know that You meet all of our needs.