Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 11:4, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.
American Standard Version
Riches profit not in the day of wrath; But righteousness delivereth from death.
World English Bible version
Riches don't profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
Proverbs 11:4 Meaning & Commentary
Much of the world that we live in today is about riches, money, and material possessions. Most people go off to work every morning and spend most of their time and effort chasing after riches. Some people work with a greater purpose and meaning in what they do; however, many are just pursuing more money, riches, and worldly “success.” The Bible warns us that in the day of wrath, these riches will not profit. When God’s wrath comes, riches cannot save or deliver us, but only righteousness.
The Bible is not talking about our righteousness but about the righteousness of Christ, which we are in Him: Romans 3:22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction. The New Testament also warns us about incorrect priorities when it comes to God and money: Luke 12:19-21 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”
What is the point of acquiring riches, fame, and success but missing our relationship with God on earth and an eternity with Him? James 1:11 For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Riches will eventually fade away, as well as the rich man’s pursuit of more riches. When we look at life, it simply comes down to God and us and what we will do for Him in this life. Riches cannot save or deliver but is merely a tool for His purposes in this life!
Application
How then can we practically apply Proverbs 11:4 to our lives?
Because our culture is so taken away by pursuing money and material possessions, we need to constantly remind ourselves of what matters in life. We are bombarded daily with the desire to fall into the trap of chasing after money and wealth. The Bible does not condemn having wealth, but it does condemn giving wealth an improper place in our lives: 1 Timothy 6:17-19 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
We should constantly evaluate our hearts and discern whether we are slipping into the trap of pursuing money. One sure sign that God is not the center of our lives is that we are no longer generous and cannot give. The Bible is clear that when we give, our hearts are changed: Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. This scripture teaches us that it is our giving first and then our hearts. This means we should not wait until we “feel” like giving; we should choose to give first, and as we do that, we find our hearts being changed, and we become more like God. When we give into His Kingdom and His work, our hearts will be there also, just as Matthew 6:21 teaches!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come to you in Jesus’ name today and thank you for this reminder that riches and wealth are passing away, but to be in right standing with you is what matters for all eternity. I ask that you help me to recognize where my heart is not aligned with you and your Kingdom. Thank you that Your Word promises that if we put you first in our lives, everything we need will be added to us. Help me to walk in Your Kingdom and Your will all the days of my life. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen!
