“The price of wisdom is above rubies.” – Job 28:18
The True Value of Wisdom
When we talk about expensive things, we often think of material possessions like gold or fine jewelry. However, the Bible reminds us that true worth lies in wisdom. Wisdom is more precious than any jewel or gemstone, and it is something that guides us through life. We should seek wisdom because it leads to understanding and right living. When we prioritize gaining wisdom, we find ourselves enriched in ways that money can’t buy. It allows us to navigate life’s challenges with clarity, deepening our relationships, and understanding God’s purpose for us.
Job 28:18
“The price of wisdom is above rubies.” – Job 28:18
Proverbs 3:15
“She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.” – Proverbs 3:15
Proverbs 16:16
“How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” – Proverbs 16:16
Ecclesiastes 7:12
“Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: wisdom preserves those who have it.” – Ecclesiastes 7:12
Proverbs 4:7
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
Earthly Treasures
We often find ourselves accumulating expensive things and thinking they bring us happiness. However, the Bible teaches us about the temporary nature of earthly treasures. When we invest our time and resources only in material possessions, we miss out on what truly lasts—our relationship with God and love for others. Let’s remember that true treasure is found not in what we own, but in what we give and invest in the lives of those around us.
Matthew 6:19-20
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” – Matthew 6:19-20
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'” – Luke 12:15
1 Timothy 6:7
“For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” – 1 Timothy 6:7
Proverbs 11:4
“Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” – Proverbs 11:4
Matthew 19:21
“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'” – Matthew 19:21
The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus requires a commitment that may come with a price. We might think of expensive things, but the cost of being a disciple may involve giving up certain luxuries or comforts. It’s an invitation to focus on what’s important and invest our lives in service to others. In doing so, we find a fulfillment that no expensive thing can offer. The sacrifices we make lead us to a deeper understanding of love, selflessness, and purpose.
Luke 14:27
“And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” – Luke 14:27
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” – Matthew 16:24
Mark 10:21
“Jesus looked at him and loved him. ‘One thing you lack,’ he said. ‘Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'” – Mark 10:21
Philippians 3:8
“What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” – Philippians 3:8
Matthew 10:39
“Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” – Matthew 10:39
Generosity and Sharing
Engaging in acts of generosity often leads to blessings that far outweigh expensive gifts or possessions. The joy that comes from sharing what we have, especially when it benefits those in need, cannot be measured. Generosity is a reflection of God’s heart and is often seen as a priceless treasure in His eyes. When we open our hearts and hands to give, we discover a deeper joy and connection with our neighbors and with God.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
Acts 20:35
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” – Acts 20:35
Proverbs 22:9
“The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.” – Proverbs 22:9
1 John 3:17
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17
Luke 3:11
“John answered, ‘Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.'” – Luke 3:11
God’s Provision
In our quest for expensive things, we may forget that God promises to provide for our needs. Trusting in His provision allows us to focus more on our spiritual growth and relationships than on accumulating wealth. When we remember that God is our ultimate provider, we can approach life with gratitude and assurance. It brings us peace knowing that our concerns about material needs are taken care of by a loving Father.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Matthew 6:31-32
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.” – Matthew 6:31-32
Psalms 37:25
“I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging for bread.” – Psalms 37:25
Deuteronomy 8:18
“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.” – Deuteronomy 8:18
Matthew 7:11
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” – Matthew 7:11
The Greatness of God’s Love
While we may consider costly gifts or material wealth as signs of success, God reminds us that His love is the most priceless treasure of all. We cannot buy it, but through faith, we can receive it freely. God’s love transforms our lives, making it possible to find fulfillment in relationships and community rather than through expensive things. It is this love that enriches our lives more than any earthly possession ever could.
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Ephesians 2:4-5
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” – Ephesians 2:4-5
1 John 4:9
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” – 1 John 4:9
Ephesians 3:18-19
“May have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” – Ephesians 3:18-19
Final Thoughts
As we explore the topic of expensive things, we recognize that worldly treasures hold little value compared to wisdom, love, and generosity. Focusing on building our relationship with God and showing love towards others becomes our priority. True happiness and fulfillment don’t come from what we own but rather from how we love and serve those around us.
We are reminded through scripture that God provides for our needs and asks us to trust Him in every aspect of life. Those who seek wisdom gain insights that guide them towards happier lives. Acts of generosity create deeper connections with others and show the heart of God in us.
Let’s remember that while we might desire expensive things, it’s the richness of our experiences, relationships, and faith that brings us the real treasure. We can explore more about how generosity shapes our lives or learn about the wisdom of King Solomon in our spiritual journey.