The Deceitfulness Of Riches

In Ecclesiastes 10:19, the preacher states that “a feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things.” Some other versions translate this last phrase as “but money is the answer for everything,” “and money gives everything,” or “and money answers everything.” However, we must ask: what is the true scope of riches? Are riches really the answer to everything?

Riches do not solve all of life’s problems. Wealth cannot guarantee perfect health or deliverance from sickness. Even the wealthiest monarchs and billionaires have succumbed to death and disease. Wealth does not prevent death, nor does it ensure immunity from accidents or harm. It cannot erase the fear of death in the heart; no amount of riches can buy eternal life or extend life beyond its divine appointed time.

Furthermore, riches do not provide spiritual deliverance. Money cannot free a person from demonic oppression, sin, or spiritual bondage. It cannot guarantee eternal salvation or make someone a saint before God. The limits of money are clear: it can only answer to material, temporary, and earthly needs nothing more.

Understanding the original language of Ecclesiastes 10:19 helps clarify this point. In the King James Version, the word “thing” is in italics, indicating it was added by translators for clarity. The literal Hebrew text simply states, “but money answereth all,” emphasizing that money’s ability to answer is limited to what it is capable of primarily the material aspects of life. The addition of “thing” broadens the meaning unnecessarily, leading many to believe that riches can solve everything, which is a misinterpretation of the scripture.

The verse specifically refers to material possessions, resources, and arrangements that facilitate the pleasures and necessities of this life. It does not imply that wealth can solve spiritual, moral, or eternal issues. Misusing or misinterpreting this verse to suggest that riches can answer all problems is a grave error that distorts God’s Word.

The spirit behind money, mammon falsely claims it can answer all things. Many have fallen for this deception, trusting in wealth above all else. Mammon promises security from life’s risks, shielding from disgrace, shame, or harm. It claims to protect from poverty, failure, loneliness, and insignificance. It even promises happiness, peace, and joy yet these are superficial and fleeting. Wealth also claims to be the ultimate solution for the big problems of life war, famine, sickness, accidents and many believe that without money, they cannot serve God or fulfill divine purposes.

However, these are lies. God remains the sovereign, unchanging source of all help. He is able to do all things and is the only true refuge. As James 1:17 declares, “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Psalm 46:1 affirms that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Relying on riches instead of God is vanity and deception.

Any trust placed in wealth or human plans is futile. Psalm 127:1 reminds us that “except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” The enemy’s goal is to divert our hearts from trusting in God and instead place confidence in earthly riches, only to mock, steal, and ultimately destroy our souls.

Therefore, we must guard our hearts against the deceitfulness of riches. Our trust should be rooted solely in God, who is our true security. Let us remember that money has limits and cannot answer the deepest needs of the soul or the promise of eternal life. Only God is the dependable source of help in every situation both here on earth and in eternity.

In conclusion, the deceitfulness of riches lies in their false promises. Wealth may provide temporary comfort, but it cannot provide lasting security, peace, or salvation. True security comes from trusting in God alone, the giver of every good gift. May we fix our hearts on Him and not be deceived by the fleeting promises of mammon.

Prayer Points.

1. Father, grant me wisdom to understand that true security and fulfillment come only from You. Help me avoid the deception of riches and keep my trust rooted in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2. Lord Jesus, I come against every spirit of mammon that seeks to deceive me into trusting in wealth rather than in You. Break every hold of greed and materialism over my life. Deliver me, Lord, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

3. Heavenly Father, teach me to be content with what I have. Help me trust You as my ultimate Provider and not rely on riches. Fill my heart with peace and gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

4. Lord, I ask for Your divine provision for all my needs. Meet my genuine needs according to Your riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Help me to be faithful and grateful for Your blessings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.