Wisdom is Better than Money With Jim Newheise

It’s easy to think that having more money will solve your problems. But God’s Word says that wisdom is far more valuable than even gold. We’ll talk about that with Jim Newheiser today. Jim Newheiser is a former financial consultant and a gifted author of several books on biblical finance. Today, we’re diving back into his latest book, a 31-day devotional titled Money: Seeking God’s Wisdom. Okay, Jim, so on Day 30 of his devotional, he writes about how priceless wisdom is far more valuable than money. Newheiser says it has been his observation over many years of ministry that people invest their time and money in what their hearts most treasure. As Jesus said, Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matt. 6:21). Many in our materialistic world place ultimate value on money and on the possessions and experiences it can buy. Proverbs 16:16 tells us that God’s wisdom is better than earthly treasure. We obtain God’s wisdom through His Word. Scripture also teaches us that Jesus Christ is wisdom personified, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3). HOW SHOULD THESE VERSES MOTIVATE US? We should pursue Christ and the wisdom of God’s Word the way that unbelievers pursue money. If a prospector is convinced that there is gold in a certain area, he doesn’t have to be prodded to go and search for it. His love for gold motivates him to get up early and dig hard. In the same way, when we truly believe that God’s Word contains the treasure of wisdom by which our lives will be enriched, we will gladly find the time to read it. We will dig deep, through study and meditation, so that we can find the nuggets of understanding that will enrich our souls. WHAT ELSE DOES PROVERBS SAY ABOUT THE POWER OF WISDOM? Proverbs also uses the analogy of wisdom being a lover or the soul’s true bride. Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you (Prov. 4:6). Men or women who are in love don’t merely spend time with their beloved as a matter of duty. Rather, they will do whatever is necessary to enjoy as much time as possible with the person with whom they are smitten. Scripture acknowledges that there are benefits to possessing earthly wealth, including the greater opportunities to enjoy God’s earthly gifts that it presents. But these blessings pale in comparison to the spiritual blessings that are gained by the person who chooses to doggedly pursue God’s wisdom. As the book of Proverbs lays out, His wisdom enables us to live wellin our vocations, our families, our friendships, our speech, and our every relationship. It’s sometimes difficult to remember that when we see others ignoring God’s wisdom yet prospering by worldly standards. While the wealth of a rich man may offer him a greater measure of earthly security, like the walls of a fortified city (see Prov. 18:11), The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe (Prov. 18:10). Earthly treasure does not always keep one safe. It can be stolen or lose its value. Or its owner can lose his health or even die. Those who trust in God receive His help in this life and everlasting security in the life to come. HOW DO WE APPLY THE TRUTH ABOUT THE VALUE OF WISDOM TO OUR LIVES? You need to ask yourself, How is what you treasure reflected in how you spend your time and your money? And reflect on this truth: An eager pursuit of God’s wisdom can change your life, enabling you to live well and reorienting your perspective on your financial troubles. Then you’re ready to act. What can you change in your schedule and your budget to reflect your faith that God’s wisdom is more valuable than silver or gold? On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: ● What are the pros and cons of investing in gold? ● Is there an affordable way to buy auto insurance for a teenager? ● Is it wise to borrow against your 401k to pay off credit card debt? ● Do you need to sign up for Medicare Part-B if you still have employer healthcare coverage? Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000 or email them to [email protected]. Also, visit our website at MoneyWise.org where you can connect with a MoneyWise Coach, join the MoneyWise Community, and even download the free MoneyWise app. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1085/29