For the month of May, we’ll take a brief look at 31 wise sayings from Proverbs 11, that’s one proverb a day…
A gracious woman gains honor, but violent people gain only riches.
Proverbs 11:16, Christian Standard Bible
The world clamors for wealth. Many times people think, “If I only had more money it would help solve this problem and my life would be better.” Many wars have been fought over resources and power, with those in charge using violence to try to gain more.
Solomon reminds us here that riches aren’t the most important things in the world. If we set our hearts after riches, then we are no better than violent men. It’s as Paul wrote in 1 Timothy–the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil.
What matters more is character. A gracious person might not end the day rich, but she will make a better name for herself in the end. And when we stand before God it is that–our character, who we are in Christ, that will matter; not what we own.
First Baptist Church 