An Idea Borrowed

Years ago on a radio program someone shared that they read a chapter in Proverbs every day. Since there are 31 chapters and the longest month has 31 days it allows you to read through Proverbs on a regular basis. I use it as the launch pad for my personal worship time and branch out from there. On this blog I will try to share some of the insights I have in the Word. I will try to organize them in the archive by reference.

Thursday, March 15, 2018

How

(Proverbs 15:27 KJV)  He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

This is a place where multiplied translations help us find better understanding.  One group uses the word “greedy” (1214) compared to “profits”.  They then talk about “gain” (1215) in place of “illicitly”.  Both approaches have a negative word with a neutral word.  Both are trying to get us to understand the sin we must avoid. 

Everyone is faced with finding a way to put food on the table and a roof overhead.  When the Bible talks about the tithe it is to be on the increase.  That means being productive.  In order to be productive it is necessary to generate more coming in than going out.  That is called profit or gain.  In itself that is good and blessed by God. 

The problem we face is found in this combination of words which has the idea of coercion and violence to get what you want.  The end does not justify the means.  Attitude and methods are significant. 

So?  Go to work.  Make a living.  Learn how much is enough and how is important. 

2 comments:

Gorges Smythe said...

Yeah, the problem is that, generally speaking, Rockefeller were right.

Pumice said...

And he is the one who taught Sunday School most of his life.

Grace and peace