Proverbs 21:20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.
The foolish person consumes everything. In contrast, “a foolish man spendeth it up” describes someone who lives only for the moment, spends or consumes everything that comes in, and leaves nothing stored for later.
The idea is not simply poverty, but wastefulness and lack of self-discipline. The fool may receive the same resources as the wise person, but because of impulsiveness and poor judgment, nothing lasts. When difficulty comes, there is no reserve.
This proverb speaks to more than money. It applies to: Time – the wise invest it; the foolish waste it; Energy – the wise pace themselves; the foolish burn out; Relationships – the wise build and nurture; the foolish neglect or damage; Spiritual life – the wise store up truth and character; the foolish drift and deplete themselves. In every area, wisdom builds reserves; folly runs on empty.
The verse teaches that wisdom shows up in how we handle what we’re given. The wise live with moderation, planning, and care, and over time their lives show quiet abundance and resilience. The foolish chase immediate gratification, and in the end have little to show for it.
So the proverb gently urges: live today in a way that protects tomorrow.
Living the Word 