Intro:
Good morning. My name is David Jansson, and we're continuing our Summer of Wisdom series on Proverbs. Today, we're tackling the topic of money and wealth. The Bible has over 2,350 verses on this, and God cares how we get money, what we think about it, and what we do with it. This sermon, "10 Lessons on Wealth from Proverbs," will distill God's perspective and challenge us.
Scripture References: Proverbs 10:4, 10:15, 11:4, 11:16, 11:24-26, 13:11, 14:20, 15:16, 15:27, 18:11, 19:17, 21:20, 22:1, 22:7, 22:9, 23:4-5, 28:19, 28:20, 28:22, 30:8-9, Matthew 6:19-21, 19:23-24, 1 Timothy 6:10, Hebrews 13:5, Malachi 3:10, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Acts 4:32-35
Key Points:
- Wealth is Good, But Deceitful: Proverbs affirms wealth is good but emphasizes it's not the most important thing. It's a "high wall in his imagination" (Prov 18:11), providing false security. The love of money blinds us to our need for God.
- How to Build Lasting Wealth God's Way:
- Diligence and Hard Work: God provides through our consistent labor (Prov 10:4).
- Justice, Not Injustice: Wealth gained by deceit will not last (Prov 13:11).
- Seek Wisdom: God's wisdom brings enduring wealth, better than gold (Prov 8:18).
- Aim for True Wealth, Not Showy: Don't waste money impressing others; find security in God.
- Flee from Debt: Debt makes you a "slave of the lender" (Prov 22:7). Trust God to provide.
- Build Wealth Slowly: Getting rich quick often leads to ruin (Prov 13:11).
- Give Generously: This is the most important purpose of wealth. Giving generously is an act of faith and the best antidote to the danger of wealth. God promises to bless those who give (Mal 3:10).
Conclusion:
Wealth is good but dangerous. The way to navigate this is to pursue it and use it God's way, through generous giving. This is where true abundance lies. Your security, authority, and God's love for you are not tied to your bank account.
Calls to Action:
- Reflect: Where is your heart's hope? Repent if needed.
- Give Generously: Consider tithing or supporting ministries. Test God in this, as He invites us to.
- Worship: Let's worship and take communion, rejoicing in the security of God's love.
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