In what ways can we prioritize spiritual wealth in our decision-making processes? The Promise in View Proverbs 8:21: “bestowing wealth on those who love me and making their treasuries full.” Wisdom speaks here as a living voice. The wealth she offers is more than coins; it is every good thing God deposits in a life surrendered to Him. How do we keep that spiritual wealth front-and-center when real-world decisions hit us each day? Define Wealth the Way God Does • Material riches fade (Proverbs 23:4-5). • Eternal riches endure—character, Christlikeness, kingdom impact (Matthew 6:19-21). • Decide ahead of time that anything drawing you from Christ is poverty, no matter the paycheck. Seek Wisdom Before Numbers • James 1:5: ask God for wisdom first, budgets second. • Psalm 119:105: let Scripture light the next step, not merely the most profitable step. • Build a habit of praying over calendars, contracts, and commitments before signing. Measure Choices by Eternal Return Questions to keep in mind when choosing a direction: • Will this strengthen my love for Christ? (Colossians 3:1-2) • Will it expand gospel influence? (Philippians 1:12) • Will it survive fire at the judgment seat of Christ? (1 Corinthians 3:12-14) Align Desires with God’s Word • Proverbs 16:3: “Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be achieved.” • Regularly submit goals to Scripture; allow the Word to edit or erase them. • Replace “Is it allowed?” with “Does it magnify Christ?” Choose Companions Who Value True Riches • Proverbs 13:20: walk with the wise to become wise. • 1 Corinthians 15:33: bad company still corrupts good morals. • Surround yourself with believers who celebrate obedience more than status. Invest in the Kingdom First • 1 Timothy 6:17-19: generosity now lays up treasure for the coming age. • Prioritize giving in every budget; trust God to refill what’s poured out (Proverbs 11:24-25). • Volunteer talents where they advance the gospel, not just the résumé. Guard the Heart Daily • Proverbs 4:23: life flows from the heart; guard it from greed and envy. • Practice gratitude lists to reset perspective. • Limit voices that equate success with accumulation. Review and Realign Often • Psalm 139:23-24: invite God to search motives. • Quarterly evaluate: are time, talents, and treasure still pointed at Christ? • Repent quickly where drift has occurred; God restores and refocuses. Proverbs 8:21 promises full treasuries to those who love wisdom. By redefining wealth, consulting God first, and filtering every decision through eternal lenses, we move from mere prosperity to true abundance—rich toward God and ready for forever. |
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