Wealth and Poverty in the Wisdom Literature The sayings in Scripture about wealth and poverty, particularly in the wisdom literature, are individual snapshots of a broad truth: God blesses the wise with wealth (3:9-10, 15-16; 10:22), making life’s difficulties more manageable (10:15), while foolish behavior—especially laziness—leads to poverty (see 10:4). The book of Proverbs readily acknowledges that some wicked fools are wealthy, but it also reminds us that this kind of wealth will not last long (11:18; 13:11). Poverty can sometimes result from injustice (13:23) rather than foolishness, and wealth sometimes comes from injustice and dishonesty (16:8). Those who have wealth need to use it wisely, which includes generosity to those in need (28:27; 29:7, 14). The benefits of wealth are limited. Occasionally, wealth produces problems rather than solving them (11:4; 13:8). Because wisdom can help where wealth cannot, wisdom is much more important than money (15:16-17; 16:8, 16). All things being equal, the godly will be rewarded with material blessings and the opportunity to be generous. However, all things are not equal. Sometimes wealth does not go to the deserving (see E...