How does this verse encourage wise financial stewardship in a Christian's life? Key Verse “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is passed to the righteous.” What the Verse Immediately Tells Us • God approves of leaving a tangible, multi-generational inheritance. • Money and property are tools meant to bless family and expand righteousness. • Wealth that is gained or held sinfully will ultimately slip away and land in hands God deems faithful. Why Legacy Matters to God • He is “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” (Exodus 3:6), revealing a heart for family lines, not only individuals. • Psalm 112:1-3 shows the righteous man’s “wealth and riches are in his house,” tying material blessing to spiritual reverence. • Deuteronomy 6:6-9 commands parents to pass truth to children; financial provision supports that ongoing discipleship. Principles of Wise Stewardship Drawn from Proverbs 13:22 1. Think Two Generations Ahead – Decisions today should still bear fruit for grandchildren. – Long-term vision curbs impulsive spending (Proverbs 21:20). 2. Pursue Righteous Earnings – Honest work (Ephesians 4:28) and ethical business practices keep wealth from slipping away “to the righteous.” – Ill-gotten gains are slippery by design (Proverbs 10:2). 3. Build, Don’t Hoard – The inheritance left is purposeful, not stockpiled out of fear (Matthew 6:19-21). – Resources are cultivated so the next generation can serve God more effectively. 4. Align Stewardship with Character – “A good man” links moral integrity to financial planning. – Character failures can erase decades of saving, proving that stewardship is first spiritual. Practical Steps for Today • Create a written budget that includes generosity, savings, and modest living expenses. • Invest in assets that historically outlast a single lifetime (land, well-managed businesses, diversified portfolios). • Draft or update a will; clear legal direction prevents inheritance from dissipating through conflict. • Model financial integrity for children: pay bills on time, refuse shady deals, celebrate cheerful giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). • Teach biblical money principles in regular family conversations (Deuteronomy 11:19). Related Scriptures that Strengthen the Lesson • 1 Timothy 6:17-19 – Use wealth to “lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age.” • Proverbs 22:7 – Borrowing places one under servitude; freedom helps an inheritance endure. • Luke 16:10-11 – Faithfulness in “very little” proves readiness for “true riches.” • Psalm 37:25-26 – The righteous are “always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.” Living It Out Everyday • View every dollar as a kingdom seed: Will it still bear fruit when I’m gone? • Ask before purchases: Does this help me leave a godly inheritance or shrink it? • Encourage heirs in wisdom now so they can handle later blessing (Proverbs 17:6). • Remember, God ultimately transfers wealth; partnering with His priorities ensures it stays where it best glorifies Him. By letting Proverbs 13:22 shape spending, saving, and giving, believers participate in God’s multi-generational plan—leveraging resources today so faith, not merely finances, flourish tomorrow. |
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