The Path to Real Prosperity
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Apr 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. (Proverbs 3:13-16)
True happiness is found not in the accumulation of silver, gold, or rubies. Solomon, who had plenty of precious gems and metals, explained that the discovery of wisdom and understanding is where the genuine treasure is. The value of wisdom and knowledge will always far surpass the value of any form of earthly riches. It is the key that unlocks the door to a life filled with abundance and fulfillment.
In fact, wisdom brings with it many blessings. It brings both length of days and a quality of those days. See, wisdom allows us the benefit of gaining wealth without painfully or purposelessly toiling. In fact, the Hebrew word for sorrow in this verse means painful toil.
You’ll still have to do some work to get it, but work is a blessing from God. It means that when you seek after wisdom, your work will always be beneficial, powerful and purpose filled. Too often people spin their wheels, so to speak. They work and toil and still don’t see any progress toward their goals.
When we think about the story of Adam and Eve, we are reminded of the consequences of sin and the toil it brought upon humanity. Sin made work toilsome, but God’s plan was for our redemption and restoration. God doesn’t intend for us to be a people who toil for no reason, but through His wisdom, we find real prosperity and purpose with all that we do.
Practical Application
Make seeking wisdom and understanding your priority in life. When you are looking for it with fervor and diligence, you realize that all else becomes a much easier task. Be like the wise man who builds his house upon the rock, rooted in the wisdom and knowledge of God.
