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True Wisdom Leads to: Both Honer & Riches

The Scriptures consistently paint a picture of a profound and multifaceted inheritance awaiting the wise, an inheritance that encompasses not only spiritual blessings but also, in many contexts, a measure of both riches and glory. 

This is not to say that earthly wealth is the sole or primary reward of wisdom, but rather that a life lived in accordance with divine wisdom often brings forth a prosperity that extends beyond the purely material, culminating in an eternal glory.

The Bible frequently connects wisdom with long life, honor, and a form of prosperity. Proverbs, in particular, highlights these themes:

Proverbs 3:16 states, "Long life is in her [wisdom's] right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor." This verse directly links wisdom with both material wealth ("riches") and social esteem ("honor" or "glory"). It suggests that living wisely is a pathway to a life that is both abundant and respected.

Proverbs 8:18 declares, "Riches and honor are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness." Here, wisdom personified speaks of possessing "enduring wealth" alongside "riches and honor," implying a lasting and secure form of prosperity that is intertwined with righteousness. This isn't fleeting gain but a stable inheritance.

Proverbs 22:4 teaches, "By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches and honor and life." This verse broadens the foundation for this inheritance, emphasizing that humility and reverence for God are integral components of wisdom, and these virtues lead to a comprehensive blessing of "riches and honor and life."

Beyond the proverbs, the concept of a glorious inheritance for the wise is further elaborated, especially in the context of eternal life and God's kingdom. While earthly riches may be a temporal blessing, the ultimate inheritance is eternal and infinitely more valuable.

Daniel 12:3 speaks of a future glory for those who lead others to righteousness: "Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever."

This verse emphasizes an everlasting glory, a radiant inheritance that transcends earthly recognition. This wisdom is not just for self-benefit but for the spiritual enlightenment of others.

Matthew 6:19-21 encourages believers to store up "treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal." While not explicitly mentioning "wise," this passage implies that wise living involves prioritizing eternal treasures over perishable earthly ones, leading to an ultimate and secure inheritance. The true "riches" of the wise are laid up in heaven.

1 Peter 1:3-4 speaks of a "living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you." This passage describes the ultimate glory and riches awaiting all believers, including the wise, an inheritance that is eternal, perfect, and secure.

In conclusion, the inheritance awaiting the wise, according to Scripture, is multi-layered. It encompasses a measure of earthly riches and honor as a natural outflow of living according to God's principles, as seen in Proverbs. 

However, the true and enduring inheritance is far greater: an everlasting glory, incorruptible riches, and eternal life reserved in heaven. This ultimate inheritance is the glorious reward for those who walk in wisdom, fear the Lord, and lead lives that honor Him.
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