How can we prioritize "fear of the LORD" over wealth in daily life? Starting with the Core Verse Proverbs 15:16: “Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure with turmoil.” Why Fear of the LORD Outweighs Riches • The fear of the LORD brings life, rest, and protection (Proverbs 19:23). • Reverent awe leads to wisdom (Job 28:28) and true wealth that cannot perish (Matthew 6:19-21). • Riches without God’s peace invite “turmoil,” eroding joy and relationships (Proverbs 11:28; 1 Timothy 6:9-10). Recognizing When Wealth Is Crowding Out Awe • Overwork that sidelines worship, fellowship, or family (Psalm 127:2). • Anxiety tied to market swings, job security, or lifestyle maintenance (Matthew 6:31-33). • Stinginess or reluctance to give when needs arise (Proverbs 21:13). • Measuring success mainly by income, possessions, or status (Luke 12:15). Everyday Practices to Keep God First 1. Start each day acknowledging God’s ownership. – Pray Psalm 24:1 aloud: “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” 2. Set a giving baseline before spending. – Firstfruits giving (Proverbs 3:9-10) trains the heart to treasure God over money. 3. Build margins—time and financial. – Live below your means so generosity and rest are possible (Hebrews 13:5). 4. Schedule weekly worship and Sabbath rhythms. – Corporate worship and intentional rest refocus priorities (Exodus 20:8-11). 5. Practice contentment gratitude. – List daily provisions, echoing 1 Timothy 6:6-8: “godliness with contentment is great gain.” 6. Align big decisions—career moves, purchases, investments—with Scripture’s values. – Ask: Does this deepen my obedience and capacity to serve? (Colossians 3:17). 7. Keep eternal perspective visible. – Place verses like Matthew 6:33 or Proverbs 22:4 where money is handled (desk, phone background). Cultivating Habits That Grow Holy Awe • Memorize one “fear of the LORD” verse each month (e.g., Proverbs 14:27; Psalm 112:1). • Read biographies of believers who chose faithfulness over fortune. • Share testimonies of God’s provision in small groups to reinforce trust. • Fast periodically from discretionary spending to sharpen dependence on God. Scripture Anchors for Ongoing Review • Proverbs 3:5-10 – Trust and honor the LORD with all your resources. • Luke 12:31-34 – Seek His kingdom first; your heart follows your treasure. • 1 Timothy 6:17-19 – Command the rich to hope in God, to be rich in good deeds. • Hebrews 13:5 – “Keep your lives free from the love of money.” Choosing fear of the LORD over wealth is not loss but gain: peace, wisdom, and treasures that last forever. |
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