June 13

June 13

Solomon & his Wealth -- Solomon's wealth & his thoughts on the limitations of wealth.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: 1Kings 10:14-29

Reading 2: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11

Reading 3: Ecclesiastes 5:10-20

Today's reading may be hard for us to read! Solomon had so much wealth that silver was considered worthless in his day! He had more than anyone could ever need, and his wealth kept increasing. It sounds like a candidate for an Occupy protest - a greedy, one-percent king robbing the poor to line his own pockets. But that is not the reason why Solomon was rich. He was rich because he was wise, and that is a principle that is still true today. Prosperity is not a guarantee of wisdom, but wisdom is a guarantee of prosperity. Not on the scale of Solomon, but prosperity nonetheless. Not every rich person is wise, but every wise person prospers. That is why seeking wisdom from God (as Solomon did) is the greatest path to success anyone could take.

But when we turn over to Ecclesiastes, we learn what Solomon learned about riches - riches alone are meaningless. There is a place for wealth, and God wants us wealthy, but not in the sense of accumulated riches. Our wealth is to be in contentment, diligence, and trust. With those wisdom riches, almost any amount of money is enough!

Have a great day!

Mark.