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.
Seven things to labour for (continues): [3] To win lost souls (Php. 2:16). Paul laboured tirelessly so others might know salvation. Soul-winning, from our side, requires prayer, patience, sacrifice, and a faithful example. [4] To support the weak (Acts 20:35). The strong are called to help those struggling physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Christlike labour seeks to strengthen others, not merely enrich oneself. [5] Not to burden others (1Thess. 2:9). Paul laboured with his own hands when necessary so that he would not become a financial burden to believers, setting an example of diligence, responsibility, and godly provision. Scripture teaches that a man is to care for his own household, “for if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel” (1Tim. 5:8).6. [6] To enter eternal rest (Heb. 4:1). Believers are exhorted to persevere in faith and obedience so they do not fall through unbelief. This “labour” is spiritual perseverance, not salvation by works. [7] To be accepted by God (2Cor. 5:9). The goal of life should be to please God. Human applause fades, but divine approval is eternal. A wise person asks: “Does this honour God?” rather than merely: “Does this increase wealth?”
‘Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not?’ Riches are uncertain and temporary. The expression means wealth is unstable and fleeting, as though it hardly truly exists because it can disappear so quickly. People often build their identity around money, status, possessions, careers, or worldly success. Yet all temporary things eventually fade.
This proverb warns against making temporary things your life objective, do not anchor your identity in wealth, and do not trust what can vanish overnight. The next verse says that riches make themselves wings; they fly away. Money may disappear through economic collapse, sickness, theft, death, bad investments, or changing circumstances. Only eternal things endure.
Living the Word 