Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2522 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.
In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’re continuing our exploration of Psalm 37, focusing on verses 16 through 22 from the New Living Translation. This passage contains profound wisdom about trusting God, valuing righteousness over riches, and understanding the fate of both the godly and the wicked.
Let’s begin by reading Psalm 37:16-22 together:
Psalm 37:16-22 (NLT)
16 It is better to be godly and have little
than to be evil and rich.
17 For the strength of the wicked will be shattered,
but the Lord takes care of the godly.
18 Day by day the Lord takes care of the innocent,
and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever.
19 They will not be disgraced in hard times;
even in famine they will have more than enough.
20 But the wicked will die.
The Lord’s enemies are like flowers in a field—
they will disappear like smoke.
21 The wicked borrow and never repay,
but the godly are generous givers.
22 Those the Lord blesses will possess the land,
but those He curses will die.
The phrase “better to be godly” emphasizes the eternal value of living a righteous life. Even if we have limited resources, a life lived in alignment with God’s will is infinitely more meaningful than one filled with riches but marked by wickedness. The wealth of the wicked is temporary and can’t bring true fulfillment or peace. In contrast, the godly have the assurance of God’s presence and blessings, which far outweigh any earthly treasure.
This verse encourages us to evaluate what we prioritize. Are we striving for temporary wealth or eternal righteousness? By choosing godliness, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and experience the lasting joy and peace that come from living in His will.
In contrast, the Lord...