Proverbs 21:5 - Meaning and Application

Here is, first, the way to become rich. If we want to live well and comfortably in this world, we must be diligent in our work and not draw back from the effort and trouble it takes. We should follow our tasks closely, make good use of every chance we get, and do everything with all our strength. But we must not be rushed or push ourselves and others too hard. We should keep steady and take things in a careful, moderate way, for that often gets farther in a day.

Diligence must be joined with wise planning. The thoughts of the diligent matter just as much as the hands of the diligent. Good forethought is as useful as hard work. Do you see a man who is both wise and hardworking? He will have enough to live on.

Second, here is the way to become poor. Those who are hasty, careless, and rash in their affairs, and who will not take time to think, are headed for poverty. So are those who are greedy for gain and try to get rich by dishonest methods or foolish schemes. The very plans and clever ideas they trust to lift them up will bring them down.