The crown of the wise is their riches,
But the folly of fools is foolishness.
Proverbs 14:24 (ESV)
The crown of the wise is their wealth,
but the folly of fools brings folly.
Throughout the book of Proverbs there is a constant contrast between the wise and the foolish. The writer of this proverb wants us to know that one of the advantage of the wise person is that their wisdom brings them riches. The logical reason for this is that with their wisdom they are trusted and often consulted (think Daniel). They make wise choices and that allows them to be safe and secure when others are in difficulty and danger (think David). People who fear The Lord by faith are given wisdom and with that wisdom are sought out and given high positions of influence (think Joseph). They are able to earn income and wealth because they know hard work and ethical decisions (think Abraham). The contrast to that is the foolish man. They are only left with folly. They don’t have positions of influence. They have no wealth (think Lot). When we believe in God and His word we have blessings God makes available through conduits of good works, smart choices, hard work, and strong networking. Solomon uses the symbol of the crown here to indicate the wise person will be noticed. They are able to walk with respect and authority. Foolish people are not so. They may get laughter and enjoy social interaction. But, they do not have respect and influence. Wisdom brings wealth, but the wise uses it for future influence and bringing glory to God, not for themselves. The fool uses their wealth to advance their own folly. Such is the contrast in Proverbs. To the wise, wealth is a reward. To the fool, wealth is the goal. This is why the fool has nothing at the end. The reward for the fool is his folly.
No comments:
Post a Comment