(箴言 13:11)
“不勞而得之財,必然消耗.勤勞積蓄的,必見加增。”
這段經文透過兩種財富的來源與結果,給予我們深刻的生命啟示。
經文中提到的不勞而得之財,在希伯來文的語境中被形容為一種虛空、如霧氣般的狀態。這種財富並非透過辛勤勞動換取,它就像清晨的薄霧,看起來似乎存在,但當太陽升起、微風吹動時,便會迅速消散。無論是透過賭博、投機或是不正當手段獲取的金錢,其本質都是輕飄飄的,最終必然會逐漸萎縮甚至歸零,無法給人帶來長久的安穩。
相反地,勤勞積蓄的過程在原文中被描繪成用手一小把、一小把地收集。這不是一種瞬間的暴富,而是一份帶著體溫與汗水的累積。這種財富是有生命力的種子,雖然增長得緩慢,卻極其紮實且穩固。因為它包含了人的努力與心血,所以在神的看顧下,這種財富會像植物一樣持續生長,不但能留得住,更會見到加增。
在我們的生活裏,不應追求那種虛幻、投機取巧的捷徑,因為那樣的財富缺乏根基,終究會落空。真正的祝福往往隱藏在平凡的勞碌與堅持中。在新的一年裡,願主賜予我們充足的力量、健康與機會去辛勤工作,讓我們學習珍惜每一份親手賺取的收入,並在踏實的積蓄中,看見神豐富的供應與帶領。願我們的財富不僅是物質的累積,更是品格與信心的成長。阿門。
(Proverbs 13:11)
“Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.”
This scripture provides us with profound life insights through the two different sources and outcomes of wealth.
Wealth gained without labor, as mentioned in the scripture, is described in the Hebrew context as a state of vanity, much like a mist. This kind of wealth is not exchanged through hard work; it resembles the morning fog that seems to exist but quickly dissipates when the sun rises and the breeze blows. Whether it is money obtained through gambling, speculation, or dishonest means, its essence is weightless, and it will eventually shrink or even dwindle to nothing, failing to provide lasting stability.
On the contrary, the process of diligent accumulation is depicted in the original text as gathering little by little with one’s own hands. This is not instantaneous riches, but an accumulation carrying the warmth of one’s body and sweat. Such wealth is like a living seed; though it grows slowly, it is extremely solid and stable. Because it contains human effort and heart, under God’s care, this wealth continues to grow like a plant, not only remaining secure but also increasing further.
In our lives, we should not pursue illusory shortcuts or opportunistic paths, for such wealth lacks a foundation and will ultimately come to naught. True blessings are often hidden in ordinary labor and perseverance. In the new year, may the Lord grant us sufficient strength, health, and opportunities to work diligently, letting us learn to cherish every portion of income earned by our own hands. In steady accumulation, may we see God’s abundant provision and guidance. May our wealth be not only a material accumulation but also the growth of character and faith. Amen.
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