The rich and the poor

Proverbs 13:7 One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

In our world today, wealth and poverty are often defined by the material possessions one can accumulate. We see constant comparisons between the rich and the poor, driven by the idea that success is tied to how much you own. But the Bible gives us a different lens through which to view wealth and poverty.

The first part of the verse says, "One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing." There are those who have great material wealth, yet their lives are empty. No matter how much money or possessions they accumulate, they remain spiritually bankrupt. Their pursuit of wealth might bring temporary satisfaction, but it leaves them unfulfilled, searching for meaning in things that cannot satisfy the deepest needs of the heart.

Jesus reminds us of this in Mark 8:36: "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?" True wealth is found in a relationship with God, in living a life that reflects His character and love. A person may have all the treasures of this world, but if they do not have Christ, they lack the most important thing: the wealth of eternal life, peace, and joy in Him.

The second part of the verse says, "Another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth." There are those who live simply, perhaps without much material wealth, but they are rich in faith, love, and contentment.

Their riches are not found in their bank account but in the depth of their relationship with God, their family, and their community. They understand that life is not about accumulating possessions but about being content with what God provides.

Apostle Paul affirms this in Philippians 4:12-13 when he says, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation... I can do all this through Him who gives me strength." Contentment is a great treasure that cannot be bought, and it is rooted in trust and faith in God's provision.

Finally, the scripture passage today warns us not to be deceived by outward appearances. The person who "pretends to be rich" might project an image of success and prosperity, but inside, they may be struggling with emptiness, fear, or spiritual poverty.

On the other hand, the one who "pretends to be poor" might not seek recognition or show off their blessings, but they possess something far greater, a heart full of love, peace, and the riches of God’s grace.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:19-21, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What truly matters is not the appearance of wealth but where our heart is. Do we treasure the things of God, or are we chasing after fleeting material riches?

Let us always remember that true wealth is not about how much we own, but about the condition of our hearts before God. We must strive to be rich in faith, humility, love, and contentment, recognizing that our ultimate treasure is found in Jesus Christ. Whether we have much or little in this world, we are called to be good stewards of what God has given us, and to remember that eternal riches await those who trust in Him.

God bless you.

Prayer key:

1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.

2. Lord, grent me the grace to seek the truth wealth in you in Jesus Christ name.

3. Lord, help me to be humble in all my ways in Jesus Christ name.

4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.