It’s often said that wisdom may create wealth, but wealth rarely creates wisdom.
What’s more valuable, wisdom or wealth? Before you answer, consider that wealth is fleeting, but wisdom is never lost. John Cortines joins us today to discuss why wisdom over wealth is always the right choice.
John Cortines is the Director of Grantmaking at The Maclellan Foundation and previously served as the Chief Operations Officer at Generous Giving. He is the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.
For the last year, John has been working on an in-depth study for FaithFi titled "Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money." The study is designed to help believers align their financial decisions with biblical principles.
At the heart of the study is a profound truth: while wisdom and wealth are both valuable, only wisdom can preserve life.
To illustrate Ecclesiastes's message, John shares a real-life story that highlights the stark contrast between wisdom and wealth:
Three siblings each inherited $1 million at age 18—a life-changing sum. Yet, their paths diverged dramatically:
This story powerfully illustrates that wisdom can generate wealth, but wealth rarely generates wisdom.
Ecclesiastes sheds light on this principle in Ecclesiastes 7:11-12:
"Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun. Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: wisdom preserves those who have it."
John shares three lessons from this passage that we can take from this:
While Scripture never condemns wealth, it warns us to prioritize wisdom above financial gain.
Thanks to compound interest and investments, wealth tends to grow exponentially throughout life. However, wisdom doesn’t grow automatically—it requires intentional effort.
If wealth outpaces wisdom, it creates danger. But when wisdom leads, it preserves our life and financial well-being.
This is especially critical during sudden wealth events, such as receiving an inheritance, a bonus, or selling a business. Without wisdom, wealth can disappear quickly.
So, if wisdom is more valuable than wealth, how do we pursue it?
Wisdom isn’t just a set of principles—it’s a person. 1 Corinthians 1:24 refers to Jesus as:
"Christ, the power of God and the wisdom of God."
True wisdom begins with knowing Christ. It’s about seeking Him through prayer, studying His Word, and surrounding yourself with godly counsel.
For those preparing to transfer wealth to the next generation, we must prioritize passing down wisdom first.
The great wealth transfer is happening all around us, but money without wisdom can be destructive. Parents should talk about finances, generosity, and stewardship long before an inheritance is passed down.
Here’s how to transfer wisdom before wealth:
The worst approach is to write a will, wait until you pass away, and hope your kids figure it out. Open the conversation today.
Throughout the book of Ecclesiastes, there are two major themes:
Life is short. Let’s honor God with our time, talents, and treasure. Wisdom is ultimately found in Jesus Christ. When we align our hearts with Him, our finances, decisions, and entire lives are transformed. Let’s pursue wisdom over wealth, knowing that true riches are found in Christ.
As you consider your finances, ask yourself:
Money is temporary. Wisdom is eternal. Choose wisely.
If you’d like to dive deeper into FaithFi’s new study, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money is available for pre-order now at FaithFi.com/Shop. This resource will provide practical biblical insights on money, stewardship, and wisdom.
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
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