Better to live simply with sincere worship of the LORD than to be rich and burdened by endless strife.
Proverbs 15:16 declares, “Better is a little with the fear of the LORD Than great treasure and turmoil with it.” (v.16) This wise saying of Solomon highlights the powerful contrast between two ways of life. On one hand is a lifestyle characterized by humble resources joined with a proper reverence for God. On the other hand is a world filled with abundance that ultimately leads to inner disturbance and anxiety. Just as the book of Proverbs often teaches, our human understanding finds its proper place when it is compared and connected to the reality of God’s world, shaping our character to trust Him above our own desires. Reverence, or fear of the LORD, cultivates an attitude of humility that recognizes our dependence on Him, acknowledging that He alone grants true security.
Although wealth or material gain in itself is not condemned throughout Scripture, Proverbs frequently warns of the pitfalls of greed, envy, and pride that often accompany riches. Turmoil, or trouble, can grow when our primary pursuit is accumulating great treasure at the cost of neglecting God. Jesus also warns His followers not to store up treasures on earth in a way that overshadows their devotion to the Father (Matthew 6:19-21). This biblical principle stands firm: prioritizing a reverent relationship with the Lord fosters peace and spiritual wealth, surpassing all earthly measures of prosperity.
The phrase “fear of the LORD” is a common theme in wisdom literature. It involves both veneration and moral obedience, recognizing God’s holiness and authority. It is the foundation for wise living (Proverbs 9:10). By having even a little, yet possessing a heart aligned with God’s ways, we find that contentment and serenity overshadow any material lack. On the contrary, the “great treasure” mentioned can be full of discord if it stands upon worldly pride, fueling anxiety and confusion instead of peace.
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Proverbs 15:16 meaning
Proverbs 15:16 declares, “Better is a little with the fear of the LORD Than great treasure and turmoil with it.” (v.16) This wise saying of Solomon highlights the powerful contrast between two ways of life. On one hand is a lifestyle characterized by humble resources joined with a proper reverence for God. On the other hand is a world filled with abundance that ultimately leads to inner disturbance and anxiety. Just as the book of Proverbs often teaches, our human understanding finds its proper place when it is compared and connected to the reality of God’s world, shaping our character to trust Him above our own desires. Reverence, or fear of the LORD, cultivates an attitude of humility that recognizes our dependence on Him, acknowledging that He alone grants true security.
Although wealth or material gain in itself is not condemned throughout Scripture, Proverbs frequently warns of the pitfalls of greed, envy, and pride that often accompany riches. Turmoil, or trouble, can grow when our primary pursuit is accumulating great treasure at the cost of neglecting God. Jesus also warns His followers not to store up treasures on earth in a way that overshadows their devotion to the Father (Matthew 6:19-21). This biblical principle stands firm: prioritizing a reverent relationship with the Lord fosters peace and spiritual wealth, surpassing all earthly measures of prosperity.
The phrase “fear of the LORD” is a common theme in wisdom literature. It involves both veneration and moral obedience, recognizing God’s holiness and authority. It is the foundation for wise living (Proverbs 9:10). By having even a little, yet possessing a heart aligned with God’s ways, we find that contentment and serenity overshadow any material lack. On the contrary, the “great treasure” mentioned can be full of discord if it stands upon worldly pride, fueling anxiety and confusion instead of peace.