The attention of Living a Life Focused on God, Not Self turns from your attitude and outlook (vv. 7-8) to your wallet (vv. 9-10). There are two important things to understand before considering the application of these verses for you.
First, when Proverbs was written Israel was a nation established by God under the jurisdiction of the Mosaic Law. If Israel obeyed God he would bless them in every way; if they disobeyed, he would likewise discipline them (see Deut 28). Second, remember that these are proverbs not promises. That is, generally speaking the described outcome will occur.
So, regarding your property (Prov 3:9-10), you must depend entirely on the Lord to enjoy his blessings. “Honoring the Lord” through your property and possessions means you view God as number one, he is always most important. God is worthy of your best, and living by the fear of the Lord means you desire to do your duty toward God with all you own in this world. If God grants material prosperity, he doesn’t give that for showing off, spending excessively, or greedily hoarding it. This command condemns greed, covetousness, taking advantage of others, increasing wealth by sinful means, materialism, and sensualism.
- What is “weighty” and “most important” to you? In other words, what do you honor?
- How do you spend your time? For what end and purpose? Is God honored?
- How do you use your finances? For what end and purpose? Is God honored?
- What do you use your talents and abilities for, for what ends? Is God honored?
- Is there anything in your life that shouldn’t bring God honor and show your high regard and appreciation for him?