Contrast and Compare

(Proverbs 15:16 KJV)  Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.

Notice the contrasts between what is obviously the spiritual condition and the one that is the result of seeking material wealth.  First you have the “little” (4592) contrasted with the “great” (7227).  I think it is safe to say that both are meant to modify “treasure” (214).  Why is it that we are never content with enough.  We always need a little more.  I currently own eight guitars.  Except for the Strat, I play all of them on occasion, but in reality I don’t need all of them.  I still have to slap myself when I go by a guitar store because I still don’t have a hollow body or, well you get the idea.  I have more than enough.  The trick is to know that and believe it.  Treasure takes different forms for different people.  Learn when enough is enough.

The other contrast is between “fear” (3374) and “trouble” (turmoil NASB) (4103).  The fear of the Lord is frequently referred to in Proverbs.  It is not the craven fear I used to have of the dark.  It is the healthy respect for the holiness and character of God.  It is the concern that helps us live upright lives.  This fear leads to peace.

The turmoil comes from the insecurity of never feeling like you have arrived.  It is involved with the need to get ahead and be successful.  It is rooted in the wrong understanding of what getting ahead and success really are.

Learn to ask yourself if you really need something and why you want it.  Imagine Jesus going over your receipts.  What will those receipts tell Him about your priorities and values?