How can Proverbs 28:6 guide our financial decisions and lifestyle choices? Key Verse “Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse.” (Proverbs 28:6) What the Verse Says—Plain and Simple • God’s assessment of a person’s life is measured by moral uprightness, not net worth. • Material lack coupled with integrity is preferable to material abundance earned or maintained through crooked means. • Wealth is not condemned; perverse, deceitful, or unjust paths to obtain or guard wealth are. Principle 1: Integrity Matters More Than Income • Scripture never portrays money as evil in itself (cf. Proverbs 10:22; 1 Timothy 6:17). • Integrity—consistency with God’s revealed standards—outweighs any financial gain. • Our first financial decision each day is to resolve that no sum of money merits violating God’s moral commands (Exodus 20:15-17; Romans 12:17). Principle 2: Evaluate the Source, Not Just the Size, of Your Money • Ask, “Is this income aligned with righteousness?” before asking, “How much will I earn?” • Business practices must be fair: “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD” (Proverbs 11:1). • Career choices, investments, and side hustles are vetted by ethical scrutiny rather than mere profitability. Principle 3: Let Integrity Shape Everyday Choices • Refuse shortcuts that compromise testimony—fudging timecards, ignoring taxes, hiding cash transactions. • Treat employees, co-workers, and customers with transparent honesty (Colossians 3:23-24). • Pay debts promptly; honor contracts even when costly (Psalm 15:4). Principle 4: Contentment Over Covetousness • “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). • The verse releases us from the pressure to “keep up” with lifestyles funded by questionable means. • Gratitude for essentials (food, shelter, fellowship) protects against reckless spending and unethical earning (Hebrews 13:5). Practical Steps for Today • Review financial statements and identify any income streams or expenses that contradict biblical ethics; take corrective action. • Create a budget that reflects kingdom priorities—generous giving, honest saving, moderate living (Matthew 6:19-21; Proverbs 3:9-10). • Before major purchases, ask: “Will this hinder or help my integrity and witness?” • Partner with accountability: invite a mature believer to speak into your financial habits (Proverbs 27:17). • Celebrate small, honest gains as victories of faithfulness (Luke 16:10). Encouragement to Hold the Line Walking in integrity may appear costly in the short term, yet God promises lasting reward—peace of conscience, trustworthy reputation, and treasure in heaven. Better a clear heart before the Lord today than ill-gotten luxury that perishes tomorrow. |
    |