Rich in Deception, Poor in Truth

Day Fifty

Rich in Deception, Poor in Truth (Read Proverbs 19:1-8)

"Money won't make you happy... but everybody wants to find out for themselves." ~ Zig Ziglar

In a world where material wealth often overshadows true worth, The depth of our integrity and not riches is the measurement of the essence of a fulfilling life. The wisdom of a humble person who walks faithfully in truth shines far brighter than the hollow glow of a wealthy individual who speaks falsehoods. Reflect, if you would, on the current election process. As you reflect on the profound truth that character and honesty are far more valuable than wealth, let us seek to cultivate a life marked by steadfast integrity and sincere wisdom, for it is in the quiet strength of righteous living that we find our true blessing and purpose. If you trust in God's wisdom, his promises always materialize.

What has the pursuit of money cost you? How often have you lowered your standards, cut corners, or been flat-out dishonest to pad your bank account? The delusion of wealth is as attractive to the world as the fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil was to Adam and Eve. When you take that first bite from the fruit of wealth, you quickly search for a fig leave to hide your soul.

19 Better the poor whose walk is blameless
    than a fool whose lips are perverse.

² Desire without knowledge is not good—
    how much more will hasty feet miss the way!

³ A person's own folly leads to their ruin,
    yet their heart rages against the Lord.

⁴ Wealth attracts many friends,
    but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.

"The soul is dyed the color of its thoughts. Think only about those things that align with your principles and can bear the light of day. The content of your character is your choice. Day by day, what you choose, what you think, and what you do is who you become. Your integrity is your destiny ... the light guides your way." ~ Heraclitus

Money does make it easier to enjoy the finer things in life. Still, at the same time, it steers you away from God's ambitions to pursue the delusion of materialism, which will diminish your integrity and cost you your soul. If only… I would be happy. If I had more money, I would be set for life. "If `ifs` and `buts` were candy and nuts, we'd all have a good Christmas." The poor, wise person who "walks in his integrity" is better off than a rich fool who speaks lies. The former is blessed, the latter doomed.

May God bless your hearing, understanding, and application of today's wisdom.