Royalty and Ruin

None of Us Is Wiser Than Solomon

Throughout the ages, riches and honor have come with danger to humility and spirituality. It is not the empty cup that we have difficulty carrying; it is the cup full to the brim. Hard times may cause sorrow, but prosperity is most dangerous to spiritual life. In the valley of humiliation, where people depend on God to guide their every step, there is comparative safety. But those who stand, as it were, on a lofty peak and who are supposed to possess great wisdom—these are in the greatest danger. RR 22.1

Pride feels no need, so it closes the heart against the infinite blessings of Heaven. Those who aim at glorifying self will find themselves completely lacking the grace of God, through whose strength they may win the truest riches and the most satisfying joys. But those who give all and do all for Christ will find the promise fulfilled, “The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22. The Savior banishes unrest and unholy ambition from the heart, changing strife to love and unbelief to confidence. When Jesus speaks to the heart, saying, “Follow Me,” He breaks the spell of the world’s attraction. At the sound of His voice, greed and ambition flee from the heart, and we arise, set free to follow Him. RR 22.2