investments

People who know about money tell me I'm not very smart with it. They say that because I don't like debt; that makes me do dumb stuff like keeping my mortgage small when the interest on it is low. I'm not trying to become a millionaire, or even become richer than I am. In fact, the problem with a lot of money is that you have to manage it, and I'm happiest when I can go all day and never once think about money.

I wouldn't exactly brag about my wisdom either, but I got a little bit of affirmation this morning while read in Proverbs 3. Look at verses 13-15:  

"Blessed are those who find wisdom, 

 those who gain understanding, 

 for she is more profitable than silver 

 and yields better returns than gold.  

She is more precious than rubies;  

nothing you desire can compare with her." 

I do spend time most days trying to add to my wisdom and understanding. In fact, while I don't like to think about money, I consider a day wasted if I haven't added to what I know. It's especially wasted if I don't spend some time pondering what I read in the Bible. 

And this chapter in Proverbs promises some good things if I do that, in verses 16-18: 

"Long life is in her right hand;  

in her left hand are riches and honor.  

Her ways are pleasant ways, 

 and all her paths are peace.  

She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; 

 those who hold her fast will be blessed." 

Long life, and pleasant and peaceful paths to travel on – those are better returns, aren't they? In fact, aren't these things often the thing we think we'll get with our money? It's a reminder that the good things in life are available to the poorest among us, and not guaranteed to the wealthiest.