We honor the Lord when we rely on hard work and honest means to add to our lives.
Proverbs 13:11 underscores a principle of steady diligence that contrasts sharply with immoral gain. The scripture explains that “Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles, But the one who gathers by labor increases it.” Here, the contrast between fraudulent wealth and honest work is stark. The phrase “Wealth obtained by fraud” points to money or possessions acquired through deceptive means. The writer warns that such gains do not endure and eventually “dwindle.” By contrast, “the one who gathers by labor” discovers that genuine prosperity grows slowly and reliably, reflecting God’s approval of integrity (Proverbs 13:11).
This verse is part of the wisdom literature traditionally attributed to King Solomon, who reigned over ancient Israel around 970-930 BC. Though no specific geographical location is noted here, the broader setting of Proverbs is the kingdom of Israel in the tenth century BC, a time when agricultural and mercantile endeavors were significant means of livelihood. The counsel in this proverb addresses a universal truth: building wealth the right way fosters stability, aligning with godly stewardship. The New Testament reinforces the virtue of honest living (Ephesians 4:28) and condemns actions like deceit or theft (1 Corinthians 6:10), revealing that God’s people across all eras are called to pursue integrity in earthly matters.
In practical terms, this teaching encourages patience and perseverance. Fraudulent riches might seem appealing in the short term, but they lack God’s blessing, eventually leading to ruin. Meanwhile, labor carried out faithfully can lead to abundance—both economically and spiritually—because it aligns with the divine path of righteousness (James 5:4). This principle is not only about money, but about how any gain—fame, influence, or power—obtained sinfully is unstable at its core.
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Proverbs 13:11 meaning
Proverbs 13:11 underscores a principle of steady diligence that contrasts sharply with immoral gain. The scripture explains that “Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles, But the one who gathers by labor increases it.” Here, the contrast between fraudulent wealth and honest work is stark. The phrase “Wealth obtained by fraud” points to money or possessions acquired through deceptive means. The writer warns that such gains do not endure and eventually “dwindle.” By contrast, “the one who gathers by labor” discovers that genuine prosperity grows slowly and reliably, reflecting God’s approval of integrity (Proverbs 13:11).
This verse is part of the wisdom literature traditionally attributed to King Solomon, who reigned over ancient Israel around 970-930 BC. Though no specific geographical location is noted here, the broader setting of Proverbs is the kingdom of Israel in the tenth century BC, a time when agricultural and mercantile endeavors were significant means of livelihood. The counsel in this proverb addresses a universal truth: building wealth the right way fosters stability, aligning with godly stewardship. The New Testament reinforces the virtue of honest living (Ephesians 4:28) and condemns actions like deceit or theft (1 Corinthians 6:10), revealing that God’s people across all eras are called to pursue integrity in earthly matters.
In practical terms, this teaching encourages patience and perseverance. Fraudulent riches might seem appealing in the short term, but they lack God’s blessing, eventually leading to ruin. Meanwhile, labor carried out faithfully can lead to abundance—both economically and spiritually—because it aligns with the divine path of righteousness (James 5:4). This principle is not only about money, but about how any gain—fame, influence, or power—obtained sinfully is unstable at its core.