How does fearing the Lord influence our pursuit of success and wealth? Reading the Verse Proverbs 22:4: “The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life.” Defining the Fear that Leads to Reward • Not terror, but reverent awe that bows to God’s absolute authority • A heart-level recognition that every breath, opportunity, and dollar belongs to Him (Psalm 24:1) • Paired with humility—seeing ourselves accurately in light of His greatness Riches, Honor, Life—God’s Package Deal • Riches: material provision (Proverbs 10:22) balanced by contentment (1 Timothy 6:6) • Honor: a reputation that reflects God’s character (Proverbs 3:3-4) • Life: vibrancy now and forever (John 10:10) How Fear of the Lord Shapes Our Pursuit of Wealth 1. Sets the motive – We work to please the Lord, not to impress people (Colossians 3:23-24) 2. Sets the methods – Integrity trumps quick gain (Proverbs 13:11) – Generosity is baked in from the start (Proverbs 3:9-10) 3. Sets the measure of success – Eternal impact outweighs temporary numbers (Matthew 6:19-21) Guardrails That Keep Success Safe • Reject greed: “Watch out and guard yourselves from every kind of greed” (Luke 12:15). • Hold wealth loosely: “Command those who are rich… to be generous and willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:17-19). • Remember who owns it all: “You may say, ‘My power…’ but it is He who gives you power to get wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:17-18). Practical Steps to Walk in Fear of the Lord • Begin the day acknowledging His sovereignty (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Invite Scripture to correct financial attitudes (Psalm 119:105). • Tithe and give sacrificially as first priority (Malachi 3:10). • Seek counsel from mature believers before major financial moves (Proverbs 15:22). • Celebrate blessings by sharing them (Acts 20:35). The Bottom Line When reverent awe of God saturates our hearts, success ceases to be a self-serving chase. It becomes a by-product of humble obedience—riches, honor, and life handed out by the Lord Himself, enjoyed and invested for His glory. |
    |