A Richer Life
Scripture
“Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich.
Be wise enough to know when to quit.
In the blink of an eye wealth disappears,
for it will sprout wings
and fly away like an eagle.”
—Proverbs 23:4–5 (NLT)
Maybe we should all read that first sentence a few times. In a culture that constantly tells us to hustle harder and never stop chasing success, this ancient wisdom offers a much-needed warning. If you live in the U.S., you’re already considered wealthy compared to much of the world. So maybe it’s not just about chasing more wealth—it’s about striving to maintain a lifestyle defined by worldly standards, comparison, and pride.
Most of us have to work to support our families, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem is when our work becomes the centerpiece of our lives. Workaholism is real, and it can quietly steal the joy and relationships we were meant to cherish. Solomon says, “Be wise enough to know when to quit.” He’s not talking about retirement—he’s talking about quitting the endless striving. The pressure to gain more, earn more, and prove more is a trap. As Richard Foster wrote, “The frantic pursuit of money and possessions has become an accepted form of bondage.”¹
Sometimes the wisest thing we can do is choose less. Less stress, less hurry, less accumulation—so that we can make space for what matters most. Be content with what you have. Enjoy the people God has placed in your life. Spend your time on things that last. Because money can disappear in a moment, and so can the time we have with our loved ones.
Jesus put it simply: “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” He knows what we need. He knows what truly satisfies. So don’t wear yourself out chasing what won’t last. Give your life to what matters most—and trust God to take care of the rest.
Reflection
- Are there areas of your life where striving for more has caused you to neglect what matters most?
- What would it look like for you to simplify and focus more on God’s Kingdom?
- How can you cultivate contentment and gratitude in your current season?
Prayer
Ask God to help you discern where you may be striving unnecessarily. Pray for a heart that is content in Him. Ask Him for wisdom to choose what matters most, and courage to trust His provision instead of chasing worldly success.
Footnote
¹ Richard J. Foster, Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth (San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 1998), 79.