How can believers apply Proverbs 21:6 to financial decisions today? The Verse at a Glance “Making a fortune by a lying tongue is a vanishing mist, a deadly pursuit.” (Proverbs 21:6) Key Principles Wrapped in the Proverb • Ill-gotten wealth evaporates—just as mist burns away in sunlight • Deceit in business invites destruction, not just discomfort • God values integrity over increase; character over cash Practical Applications for Everyday Financial Decisions • Write contracts, invoices, and tax returns with total accuracy—rounding up honesty, never numbers • Refuse under-the-table deals, padded expense reports, or insider tips that require secrecy • Price products and services fairly; hidden fees and misleading advertising fall under “lying tongue” • Choose investments whose profits come from ethical enterprises, not exploitation or manipulation • When tempted to cut corners, remember: short-lived gain can cost long-term peace, reputation, and even life • If a mistake benefits you financially, correct it promptly instead of hoping it goes unnoticed • Keep generous giving in your budget; openhandedness trains the heart away from greed Guiding Scriptures that Complement the Principle • Proverbs 10:2—“Ill-gotten treasures profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death.” • Proverbs 13:11—“Dishonest wealth will dwindle, but whoever gathers by labor will increase.” • 1 Timothy 6:9-10—“Those who want to be rich fall into temptation… For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evils.” • 2 Corinthians 8:21—“For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.” • Psalm 112:5—“Good will come to the man who is generous and lends freely, whose affairs are guided by justice.” Common Pitfalls to Avoid • “Everyone does it” thinking • Chasing get-rich-quick schemes that promise high returns with low transparency • Allowing small compromises—white lies, inflated valuations—to pave the way for larger ones • Rationalizing dishonesty because the proceeds are earmarked for “good causes” • Assuming success and God’s approval are the same thing Encouraging Outcomes for Those Who Obey • Steady, sustainable provision that doesn’t melt away in crisis • A clear conscience and credible witness when sharing the gospel • Protection from legal, financial, and relational fallout • Freedom from the anxiety that clings to secret sins • Eternal reward: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) |
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