A Family Legacy Through Sacrificial Service

Proverbs 10:
2. Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.

One highly regarded commentator, who will remain unnamed, says about this proverb:

“The most substantial earthly treasures profit nothing.”

And then he gives these two proof texts.

“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.” (Proverbs 23:4-5)

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:” (Matthew 6:19)

Now, of course, the proof texts he gives are absolutely true, but do they support the conclusion he draws? I don’t think so. We have already noticed this can be said about the advantages of wisdom.

“Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness” (Proverbs 8:18)

Now I would have thought that all legitimate blessings flowing from wisdom could be considered profitable. Or what about this?

“The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” (Proverbs 10:22)

These verses could be multiplied over and over in both the Old and the New Testament. Can you see how this commentator’s statement actually slanders God? If riches are not profitable, then when God gives them to us they are also valueless. There is no reason for us to thank God for them, because they really are worth nothing – if we were to follow this commentator’s reasoning.

Thankfully there are other ways to interpret this proverb. The contrast being emphasized is between wickedness and righteous. Wickedness is so vain and empty that no amount of money added to it can make its value measure up to righteousness. Conclusion: never sacrifice your integrity and righteousness for money. It’s not worth it.

But what about this commentator’s proof texts? They are both saying the same thing – where are your priorities? If your priority and focus is to be rich, then you are inviting all kinds of temptations and snares. But if your priority is the kingdom of God and his glory through wise sacrificial service to others, then – BINGO! . . .

“The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” (Proverbs 10:22)

Sacrificial service to others in the service of God and his kingdom is the stuff of which a lasting Family Legacy is made.