Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.  Proverbs 11:28

Trust in stuff will cause you to stumble and eventually fall. Why? Why is money unfit for trust? It is unreliable because it cannot save us or bring us forgiveness, peace, or contentment. Money is an unemotional master that can trip you up if it becomes the basis for your security. It can be here today and gone tomorrow. Money moves around like a gypsy looking for the next place to live. Trust in riches fails to focus on Christ.

The Bible says, “Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle” (Proverbs 23:5). Trust in riches causes some to fall from the faith, because they equate wealth with success. However, you can be faithful to the Lord and thus be successful whether rich or poor. It may take losing money to reveal our true motivation. Trust in riches is a recipe for false security, fear, and sadness.

However, the righteous understand the role of riches is to remind them of God’s provision. The Bible says, “Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God” (Ecclesiastes 5:19). Are you struggling with the reduction of your wealth? Do you remember what really mattered when you were first married? Was it trust in the Lord, your spouse, and good health? The righteous thrive in trust and obedience to Christ.

Lastly, guard your good name during financial crisis. Character is of much greater value than cash. The Bible says, “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1). This means you do not fear and you follow through with your commitments. Faith grows in its giving during uncertain times. Am I thriving or surviving? Is my trust in gold or God?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me the faith to totally trust You and not in my ability to work and make money, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Application: Where does the Lord want me to aggressively give money while trusting in Him?

Related Readings: Deuteronomy 8:12–14; Job 31:24–25; Matthew 13:22; 1 Timothy 6:17

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