Our Favorite Proverbs: Proverbs 11:28, Wealth Never Satisfies

by Marilynn Chadwick

"Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf." Proverbs 11:28

Wealth tricks us, tempts us, and promises what it can't deliver. So, we humans buy the lie and exhaust ourselves—chasing after that which fades. Riches. Achievements. Beauty.  All are satisfying at first. But they don't last. Anyone who has watched a loved one age and die knows that the joys we experience on this earth are fleeting. Faded jeans. Faded furniture. Faded memories—mental images grow dim over time. Let's be honest. Life here on earth fades.

The book of James is filled with practical wisdom. That's why some call it "The Proverbs of the New Testament." We find this same warning about the fleeting nature of wealth. James beckons us to turn our eyes toward eternity, reminding us how "the little flower droops and falls, and its beauty fades away. In the same way, the rich will fade away with all of their achievements" (James 1:11b NLT).

Let's look at the complete passage from The Message, a stirring paraphrase: "Prosperity is as short-lived as a wildflower, so don't ever count on it. You know that as soon as the sun rises, pouring down its scorching heat, the flower withers. Its petals wilt and, before you know it, that beautiful face is a barren stem. Well, that's a picture of the 'prosperous life.' At the very moment everyone is looking on in admiration, it fades away to nothing" (James 1:9-11 MSG).

Several proverbs speak about greed, warning us that chasing wealth brings trouble, destroys families, and ultimately steals the life of the greedy person. They emphasize that greedy pursuits lead to ruin, whereas contentment is a source of security and wisdom. "He who is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household" (Proverbs 15:27a ESV). "A greedy man stirs up strife" (Proverbs 28:25a).

Overwork and greed are modern-day idols. So it's wise to be aware that when we set our minds to guard against idolatry, we step into an intense spiritual battle. I believe materialism is the chief rival god of our age. That's why victory over the bondage to material things and pulling down the stronghold of busyness requires a fierce fight. It's also why, at its core, our real battle is to believe and take our place in prayer.

God wants us to freely enjoy this life. But it's wise to sit lightly on the world's fleeting pleasures. We are to build our foundation on the eternal life given to us only in Christ.