Proverbs 15:16

New International Version (NIV)

Better a little with the fear of the Lord
than great wealth with turmoil.

For Meditation

1. Why are we in such a hurry in life? Where are we going and why are we running all over the place with little or no time for ourselves and loved ones? When is enough going to be enough for us? When are we going have enough for us to slow down and enjoy what we have?
2. In our good effort to settle our families in the comforts of life, do we stop to consider the stresses it imposes on the very people we think we’re sacrificing for – our spouses and children? If we should die today, who is going to enjoy all that we’ve killed ourselves to amass (Eccl. 6:1-2)?
3. What would we have achieved if we destroy everything around us in pursuit of our dreams? Is anything worth losing our loved ones and the joy of the Lord?
4. So, can we slow down a bit and catch our breath? Can we relax and appreciate the little we have, with the fear of God (Prov. 15:16a)? Can we stop chasing the mirage of, “great wealth” that brings nothing more than inner turmoil (16b), and external upheavals?
5. If we should examine our spiritual condition in all of this, can we say we are spiritually fulfilled? Can we affirm with certainty that we are intimate with Christ?

I pray we will listen to wise King Solomon who tried it all and recorded his experiences for us in Ecclesiastes, and gave us enough wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs to guide our walk with God.

So: May we appreciate what we have by recognizing that “godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and we will take nothing out of it” (1 Tim. 6:3-4); and, may we enjoy our families, with the peace only Christ gives to the contented heart in Himself (Phil. 4:7).

Shalom