The Difference Between Rich People and Poor People

Scripture: Proverbs 13:7-10

7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.
8 The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.
9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.
10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.
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True Wealth: The Wisdom of Proverbs 13:7-10

"True wealth isn’t found in what you have, but in who you are and whose wisdom you follow."
Material possessions often define wealth in today's culture—fancy cars, designer clothes, and luxurious homes. 
Social media is filled with images of people showcasing a lifestyle of riches, but Proverbs 13:7-10 gives us a different perspective. It warns us that appearances can be deceiving and that true wealth is found in wisdom, integrity, and the light of righteousness.

Rich in Possessions, Poor in Spirit

Proverbs 13:7 starts with a powerful contrast: "One person pretends to be rich but has nothing; another pretends to be poor but has abundant wealth."

How often do we see people spending beyond their means, trying to maintain an image of success? The world may measure wealth by money, but God measures wealth by the heart. A person may appear wealthy but be spiritually bankrupt, while another may live humbly yet be rich in faith, love, and wisdom.
We need to ask ourselves: Are we chasing worldly riches, or are we pursuing godly wisdom? Financial wealth fades, but spiritual riches last for eternity.

What Money Can’t Buy

"Riches are a ransom for a person’s life, but a poor person hears no threat." (Proverbs 13:8)
Money can buy comfort, security, and influence, but it can also make people targets. Wealth can attract dangers—whether from deceitful people or burdensome responsibilities. Meanwhile, those who live simple lifestyle often find peace and contentment, free from the worries that wealth can bring.

This verse challenges us to evaluate the value we place on money. Are we striving for riches at the cost of peace? Are we putting our trust in financial security instead of God’s provision? True security is not in a bank account—it’s in God’s hands.

Walking in the Light or the Dark?

"The lives of good people are brightly lit streets; the lives of the wicked are dark alleys." (Proverbs 13:9). Light represents clarity, purpose, and righteousness. Those who follow God’s wisdom walk in the light—they are guided by truth, make wise decisions, and reflect God’s love. But the wicked? They navigate through darkness, uncertain of where they are headed, often stumbling because they refuse to acknowledge God's guidance. Our path is illuminated when we align ourselves with God’s word and walk in peace and purpose.

The Power of Listening to Wise Counsel

"Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other’s counsel" (Proverbs 13:10). Opinions, opinions, opinions- everybody seems to have one, but how often do we listen? Social media has given us an open door to share our thoughts __ the good, bad, and the ugly. Proverbs reminds us that arrogance leads to conflict, while wisdom is found in seeking and accepting counsel. 

Pride keeps us from growing. It makes us defensive and resistant to correction. But a wise person remains teachable, willing to learn from others, and open to godly counsel. Who we surround ourselves with matters—are we listening to wise voices or allowing pride to lead us into division?

Final Thoughts 

What Are You Chasing? Proverbs 13:7-10 challenges us to redefine wealth. Are we seeking temporary riches or lasting wisdom? Are we walking in the light of God’s truth or stumbling in the darkness of self-sufficiency? The greatest wealth we can ever have is a life rooted in God’s wisdom, love, and truth.
Let’s commit to being truly rich—not in possessions but in purpose.




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