On The Take

"Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death" (Proverbs 10:2).

The treasures that profit a person are the ones that are gained in the proper way. This passage does not say that treasures are of no value. It tells us that ill-gotten treasures are of no value. They do nothing to profit a person's life the way righteousness does. To gain wealth through deceit or corruption adds no real value to life. Being "on the take" is not how we are to live our lives.

By mentioning that righteousness delivers people from death, this proverb is telling us that ill-gotten gain does not bring us real or lasting life. Life comes from walking in the Lord's righteousness. The fullness of life we seek is not found in earthly treasures that fade away. Especially if those treasures become ours due to shady practices.

Consider another proverb: "Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it" (Proverbs 13:11). To try and get rich quickly through deceitful scheming or unjust practices will not forestall death. Neither will it bring a person a deep and satisfying life.

Let's allow today's proverb to guide us toward earthly treasure that is gained righteously yet not allowed to take the place of God in our lives. Not only does life come from the hand of the Lord, but so do the blessings we experience in life. Being "on the take" does not bring real blessing. Treasure gained by shady deals or outright deception may bring temporary pleasure to one's life, but it adds no real or lasting value. Only righteousness brings us life.