All That is Shiny. . .

Proverbs 24:1-6, CEB – Don’t envy evil people,

    and don’t long to be with them.

Their hearts are focused on violence,

    and their lips speak of trouble.

By wisdom a house is built;

    by understanding it is established.

By knowledge rooms are filled

    with all precious and pleasant wealth.

A wise person is mightier than a strong one;

    a knowledgeable person than a powerful one.

You should make war with guidance;

    victory comes with many counselors.

If you’re like me, sometimes it may feel like the wrong people seem to get all the breaks.  I stress sometimes, because most of the time, I don’t feel that way.  However, particularly when I’m going through difficulty or had some misfortune visit me, I tend to notice notoriously immoral people seemingly enjoying “the good life.”  Through betrayal, deceit, and exploitation of others, they achieve wealth, fame, and even sometimes respect, however misplaced, among their peers.  It’s hard not to resent their success and even be a bit jealous, especially when you feel like you’ve gotten nowhere doing the right things.

The author of today’s text speaks to this common perception and reminds us that perception is often not reality.  Though people often do achieve wealth and power through dubious activity, the real wealth and power escapes them.  Wisdom, knowledge, and understanding are ultimately more valuable and it is these things that the immoral person will never have.  The blessing that comes to those who pursue wisdom far outweighs the perceived blessings of “evil people.”

This truth seems hard to believe at times, which is why the author is trying to teach this truth to young people.  He wants them to know this truth before they are tempted to believe otherwise.  He also wants those he would guide to look for this truth when others are looking at “all that is shiny” held by those who don’t seem to deserve it.  If you look for this truth, you will find it.  Some of the happiest people I’ve ever met literally have nothing you could call material wealth.  Conversely, some of the most miserable people I’ve ever observed seem to have endless wealth and power; many of them just seem to be angry and dissatisfied despite “having it all.” 

Wealth itself is not evil according to Proverbs. In fact, the general teaching of Proverbs is that those pursue wisdom, knowledge, and understanding often gain wealth in the process.  But the opposite is not true.  Those who primarily pursue wealth, power and/or fame  generally do not achieve wisdom in the process.  The counsel here is make sure we are pursuing that which ultimately valuable and not all that shines. 

Question:  When have you observed the truth of this proverbial statement?; A wise person is mightier than a strong one; a knowledgeable person than a powerful one.

Prayer:  Lord, teach the true value of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.  Help us to not be distracted by the “blessings” of “evil people.”  Amen.

Prayer Focus:  Pray for those who have been exploited by others.

Song:  Can’t Buy Me Love – The Beatles