True Riches

“There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing; And one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.” Proverbs 13:7

The recent antics and tantrums of the stock market had me greatly concerned one morning. A lifetime of savings and hard work were represented in a sprinkling of investments that are tied to the whims of the stock market. I tried to comfort myself with the thought that this roller coaster ride would play itself out. This was no time to panic. Yet time and time again, I would check my phone for what Dow Jones was telling me. I caught myself in the act of worry and anxiety. Actually, I think the Holy Spirit arrested my frayed and frantic thought patterns. What am I trusting in? Where does my future and hope lie? What do true riches consist of?

Certainly it is a good thing to feel secure for the future. Yes, it is nice to have money in the bank and not have to worry about the bills. It is wonderful to be able to take a trip and enjoy fine meals and see new sights. How good it feels to buy that outfit and wear the latest fashion. Monetary riches make all this and so much more possible.

But true riches far exceed these momentary pleasures. For the truth is, there will always be bills, the trip will end and fade into memory, the food will digest and I will hunger again, and the clothes will wear out and fall out of style.

I have observed some wealthy people who have allowed their wealth to ruin their lives. They believe they are beyond accountability. After all, they can buy their way out of anything. Money talks. They become arrogant, entitled, and expect special treatment at every turn. Their perspective on life becomes skewed and they are out of touch with reality. They treat others poorly and highly value their own opinions. This is not always the case, but it does happen. Yes, they are rich in monetary terms, but they are poor spiritually and emotionally. Even their health may be suffering from their excesses.

And then I have observed some who are poor who would share gladly what little they have with others. People are more important to them than stuff. Even in poverty and need, they are content.  A smile frequently crosses their face. Their hearts and their homes are open, loving, and welcoming. Within their souls is a peace that passes understanding and an assurance that, come what may, God will take care of them. Somehow the little that the righteous man has is greater than the wealth of the arrogant and pompous.

I am not saying that money or wealthy people are evil or that being poor somehow makes one righteous. It’s not a matter of the bank account. It’s a matter of the heart. Many are wealthy and yet do not allow that wealth to become a god to them and many who are poor have become bitter and mean-spirited. It’s not the balance of the checkbook, but the beauty of the spirit.

True riches are rooted in an intimacy and communion with the One who created us to know Him. He is the treasure. We are made to worship Him and apart from Him we are restless, hungry, and empty. No amount of money, cars, homes, or glittering jewelry will satisfy. God Himself is wealth beyond compare. This sacred wealth does not fluctuate, does not rise and fall, but is steadfast, faithful and utterly dependable.

Out of the unlimited resources of the Divine economy flows a deep love for our husbands and children. Out of the love of our eternal Source shines an appreciation and awareness of beauty, truth, poetry, creation, community, and the other myriad gracious things of this privileged life. Every good and perfect gift has come from His hands. Whether we are rich, or middle class, or live below the poverty line, let us hold fast the true riches of knowing and loving Jesus.

Father, thank You for settling in my heart where my treasure is and where my heart is. Always and ever, it is You. I am loved and favored and assured of Your care and keeping. Because of Jesus, Amen.