How does Proverbs 13:11 encourage diligent work over "dishonest money"? \The verse in focus\ “Dishonest wealth will dwindle, but whoever gathers by labor increases it.” (Proverbs 13:11) \Why dishonest money fails\ • It lacks God’s blessing—anything secured outside His ways carries a built-in expiration date (Proverbs 10:22). • Quick, deceptive gain invites legal, relational, and spiritual fallout (Jeremiah 17:11; Proverbs 15:27). • Ill-gotten riches erode the soul, fostering greed, fear of exposure, and a calloused conscience (1 Timothy 6:9-10). • God promises “dwindling,” not increase; there is no eternal return on unrighteous investment (Matthew 16:26). \The fruit of diligent, honest work\ • Steady labor multiplies resources—“whoever gathers by labor increases it.” • Hard work forms character: perseverance, patience, and gratitude (Romans 5:3-4). • God delights to bless the work of faithful hands (Psalm 90:17; Deuteronomy 28:12). • Honest earnings bring peace of mind—no fear of discovery, no shame before others (Proverbs 28:6). \Scriptures reinforcing the principle\ • Proverbs 10:4 — “Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.” • Ephesians 4:28 — “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must labor, doing useful work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with the needy.” • 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 — “If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat… we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ… work quietly and earn your own living.” • Proverbs 11:18 — “The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward.” \Living it out today\ • Examine motives: are my financial pursuits transparent and ethical? • Choose patience over shortcuts—accept slow, steady growth as God’s normal pattern. • Cultivate skill, excellence, and reliability on the job; view work as worship (Colossians 3:23-24). • Give generously from honest income, proving money is servant, not master (Proverbs 3:9). \Summary truth to remember\ Ill-gotten gain evaporates; diligent labor, blessed by God, grows and satisfies. Proverbs 13:11 calls us to trust His design, work with integrity, and watch Him multiply what honest hands gather. |
    |