For riches are not forever,
Nor does a crown endure to all generations. Proverbs 27:24
We read that verse and nod in agreement. That's right, we say. Yes, totally agree. Amen.
We say with our mouths.
What about with the rest of ourselves?
What does our behavior say?
We behave what we believe. And we might give verbal and mental assent to this verse from Proverbs but what does our behavior indicate we believe? Our actions, the use of our time and all our resources? Particularly as a parent...
Do I spend more of my time and energy concentrated on helping my child develop athletic or academic skills, thinking that will be what they need "to be successful in life"...an attempt to insure "riches" ? Does my behavior indicate a greater value on the pursuit of physical or intellectual riches or "crowns"?
Where on the ladder of emphasis do I place the things of the Lord - His Word, His Kingdom, His Bride?
What would my children say is most important to me? For them?
I'll close with this from Isaiah 40:8...
The grass withers, the flower fades,
but the word of our God will stand forever.