“Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and a fool.” Proverbs 19:1 NLT
It could be said that there are different kinds of poverty. In the Proverb this week we see two kinds of poverty. One that is external and one that is internal. The question of where your poverty lies is answered not by looking at your resources, but by considering your honesty. The real question is not a question of poverty. It is a question of honesty. Being poor is not the ultimate tragedy, but being bankrupt in values just might be.
Being poor does not make you holy, nor does being wealthy automatically condemn you. Money is neutral, it is neither good or bad. But wealth gained from dishonesty is foolish. The guilt from dishonesty will last far longer than any wealth that may be gained. Wealth may provide creature comforts but it does no erase the plagued conscience. Financial poverty from lack needs the provision of resources, spiritual poverty needs a Savior.
Jesus brilliantly asked the question:
“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” Mark 8:36 NLT
This week enjoy the rewards of honesty, it is foolish to be dishonest.