Many other aspects of Proverbs’ teaching on wealth and finances remain, but time does not. A good conclusion to this short series of posts will perhaps be found in an assorted discussion of some of the more important remaining issues. Other than the general relationship to finances, one sustained theme will not necessarily connect these various topics together.
First, don’t be a neatnik. “Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; but much increase comes by the strength of an ox” (Prov. 14:4). Clutter, stress, busy days, some turmoil, and a reasonable mess are all part of receiving “increase” from the Lord. Staring at a clean desk all day is not the way. Watching the grass grow in an empty pasture, with a clean barn behind you, is not the way.
Second, procrastination erodes your ability to meet your obligations. “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do so. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,’ when you have it with you” (Prov. 3:27-28). Deal with your responsibilities in order. For just one example, learn how to pay oldest bills first.
Our third point takes note of the fact that the author of Proverbs has strong feelings about co-signing notes, and related entanglements. “He who is surety for a stranger will suffer, but one who hates being surety is secure” (Prov. 11:15; 6:1-5). “A man devoid of understanding shakes hands in a pledge, and becomes surety for his friend” (Prov. 17:18). More young entrepeneurial fatheads get in financial trouble with their friends than with complete strangers. This is not addressing (I don’t believe) the kind of situation where parents help their kids get into a house — but only provided the parents are not risking what they cannot afford to give, and give gladly. “Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, one of those who is surety for debts; if you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?” (Prov. 22:26-27). This is an important point because the “rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender” (Prov. 22:7).
Fourth, we wary of swift cash. “An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning will not be blessed at the end” (Prov. 20:21). This may be honestly gained, but it still will be difficult to honestly retain. Speed also puts a dent in honesty, and dishonesty is a loser. “Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, but he who gathers by labor will increase” (Prov. 13:11). Another “fast track” to wealth is through the foolishness of others, but the Lord is not pleased. “One who increases his possessions by usury and extortion gathers it for him who will pity the poor” (Prov. 28:8). If thte deal is too good to be true, it probably is. “The simple believes every word, but the prudent considers well his steps” (Prov. 14:15). For just one example, our family has a policy of never purchasing anything over the phone unless we placed the call.
A fifth principle is that we must learn to shepherd our stuff, keeping good track of it. “Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations . . . ” (Prov. 27:23-27). Watch your herds, your crops, your ledgers, your shelves, your tools. Know how they are. Beware of optical illusions.
Sixth, part of the duty of stewardship includes doing first-rate work. “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men” (Prov. 22:29).
Seventh, another part of financial wisdom is learning how to pay your dues. “Prepare your outside work, make it fit for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house” (Prov. 24:27). Do not rush to enjoy the fruit of having done the “outside work” before you have done it. Distinguish work which makes money, and work which spends it, however lawful the expenditure might be.
An eighth point concerns the duty to save money. “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous” (Prov. 13:22). The bumpersticker that proclaims how the inhabitants of the motor home are spending their children’s inheritance is simply awful. At the same time, when it comes to inheritance, children, particularly indolent children, must not be presumptuous. “A wise servant will rule over a son who causes shame, and will share an inheritance among the brothers” (Prov. 17:2).
And last, never forget the judgment of God. Never forget the Lord is the one who gives wealth. “Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death” (Prov. 11:4). “The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the just” (Prov. 3:33). “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death” (Prov. 10:2). “Good understanding gains favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard” (Prov. 13:15). And it ought to be.