Proverbs 23:4-5 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
Two things not to labour for: [1] Not merely to become rich (23:4). If riches are the sole objective, life becomes empty, priorities become distorted, and eternal matters are neglected. God may bless diligence materially, but wealth must remain a servant, never a master. [2] Not merely for temporary food (John 6:27). Jesus taught: “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life.” Human beings often devote enormous effort to temporary survival while neglecting eternal life. Food sustains the body briefly; spiritual truth sustains eternally.
Seven things to labour for: [1] Eternal food (John 6:27). Believers should pursue: truth, spiritual growth, righteousness, and eternal reward. The soul requires nourishment just as the body does. [2] To help the poor (Eph. 4:28) – generosity without enabling. While the verse encourages giving, wisdom must guide how we give. Scripture also teaches personal responsibility – those who can work should do so. Helping the poor must not become a way of supporting laziness or unwillingness to take responsibility. Work enables believers to provide for their household, assist the needy, and reflect God’s compassion.
To be continued…
Living the Word 