January 1, 2017 (Proverbs 18:11)

“The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his own esteem” (Prov 18:11). As we start a New Year, this proverb should well be clearly imprinted on the minds of many but is likely not going to be the case. Our source of refuge should be in the Lord as emphasized in the last several weeks: “The name of the LORD is a strong tower” (18:10). In all likelihood, however, those who are wealthy for the most part will focus attention on gaining ever greater wealth. Such is the inclination of minds which are not renewed by the word of God. The imaginations of most who are very secure financially is to view riches as a high wall which will shield them from future misfortune, thereby committing themselves not only to the sin of greed but of idolatry. That one cannot serve both God and money is a teaching of Christ Himself (Matthew 6:24), yet I believe it fair to suggest that perhaps even more who attend church on Sundays are beholden to their financial situation than to God. We must determine steadfastly by God’s grace (because it isn’t natural) to never allow our sense of security be dependent upon finances, as difficult as that may prove on occasion.