We have mentioned before that reading the book of Proverbs can be challenging (see previous post).  That it contains great wisdom is unquestionable, but one of the many mistakes made easily is to draw faulty conclusions about general truths.  This is often done with passages in both the Old and New Testaments that may appear to some to predict financial gain for godly behavior, as in verse 9 (Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor).   Being generous with the poor will result in being blessed indeed.  But the richness that such actions results in is more often of a different type of blessing.  Take verse 4 of this chapter for example:

The reward for humility and fear of the Lord
is riches and honor and life.

It should be obvious that being modest and respectful and living a godly life does not guarantee one wealth in return.  Matthew Henry said it best: “Where the fear of God is, there will be humility. And much is to be enjoyed by it; spiritual riches, and eternal life at last.”

More often than not, generosity, good character, and doing the right thing bring richness of life in and of themselves in the form of spirituality.  Those who truly practice it have learned that it is so.  Verse one sets the tone as far as we are concerned:

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
and favor is better than silver or gold.

Read or listen to audio of ESV version of this selection from this link.

/Bob’s boy

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some images © V. Gilbert & Arlisle F. Beers

Please note: I did not design the reading plan that I am following in my blog.  All of my comments in this blog, however, are solely my responsibility.  When reading ANY commentary, you should ALWAYS refer first to the scripture, which is God’s unchanging and unfailing word. Reading schedules, as well as a link to the site where you can get the reading plan that I’m currently following for yourself can be found on the “Bible Reading Schedules” page of my website at http://graceofourlord.com.  For questions and help, please see the “FAQ” and “Summaries” pages there.