The True Wealth of a Devout Life by James Ryle

“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.” (Proverbs 10:22, NIV).

In a day when the Economy is tanking and frustrations (as well as fears) are rising, Wealth must be measured by more than one’s bank account. For the value of a man’s life is not in what he possesses — it is seen in the difference he made for the better in the lives of those he touched during his years on the earth.

Many a wealthy man has gone to his grave cursed. Consider the timeless words of Sir Walter Scott –

“High though his titles, proud his name,

boundless his wealth as wish can claim;

despite those titles, power, and pelf –

the wretch, con-centered all in self,

living, shall forfeit fair renown,

and, doubly dying, shall go down

to the vile dust, from whence he sprung,

unwept, unhonored, and unsung.”

Yes, it is possible to become so captured by greed that one’s life ultimately becomes ravaged by sorrow. You do not want this to happen to you.

Listen to what the Bible tells us — “But they that will be rich (i.e., crave riches) fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:9,10).

This is the World’s way to wealth. On the other hand — we have God’s way. “The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.”

Should the Lord pour out His blessings upon your life and your riches increase — then respond by deepening your devotion to His name and expanding your passion for His purposes in the earth. See to it that your life exhibits humility in exaltation, that your generosity is applied with wisdom, your charity exercised in love, and your kindness to those who struggle from day to day becomes legendary.

That’s the true wealth of a devout life. It is what Legends are made of in this world…and in the Next!