What is the meaning of Proverbs 13:11?

Dishonest wealth

• Solomon begins bluntly: “Dishonest wealth” points to money or assets gained through lying, cheating, fraud, exploitation, or any method that violates God’s commands (Proverbs 10:2; Proverbs 21:6; Jeremiah 17:11).

• Scripture consistently treats such gain as a moral cancer: it might look impressive, but it is already under judgment (Proverbs 1:19; Micah 6:11–12).

• The heart issue matters. When riches are pursued without reverence for God, they become snares (1 Timothy 6:9–10).

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Will dwindle

• God Himself guarantees that ill-gotten treasure “will dwindle.” It may leak away through legal penalties, broken relationships, addictions, or sudden calamity (Proverbs 15:27; Psalm 37:16–17).

• Even if it seems to endure for a season, ultimate loss is certain: “Your riches have rotted and moths have eaten your clothes” (James 5:2).

• The withering effect reveals God’s justice and protects society from entrenched corruption.

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But what is earned through hard work

• In contrast, honest labor roots wealth in integrity. “The hand of the diligent will rule” (Proverbs 12:24), and “Diligent hands bring wealth” (Proverbs 10:4).

• Hard work honors the Creator who works (Genesis 2:15) and invites His favor. Paul echoes this ethic: “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must labor…that he may have something to share” (Ephesians 4:28).

• Practical outworking:

– Steady employment or enterprise.

– Ethical business practices.

– Generous giving that reflects God’s character (Acts 20:35).

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Will be multiplied

• God promises increase: “Honor the LORD with your wealth…then your barns will be filled with plenty” (Proverbs 3:9–10).

• Multiplication may appear as material growth, but also as peace, credibility, and opportunities to bless others (2 Corinthians 9:6; Luke 6:38).

• He delights to entrust more to those who manage little faithfully (Matthew 25:21).

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summary

Proverbs 13:11 delivers a stark contrast. Wealth gathered by unrighteous means is unstable and destined to evaporate under God’s just hand, while income earned with honest diligence attracts His multiplying blessing. Choosing integrity over shortcut riches safeguards our hearts, honors the Lord, and positions us to experience both material and spiritual increase for His glory.