Mockers resent correction,
    so they avoid the wise.
A happy heart makes the face cheerful,
    but heartache crushes the spirit.
The discerning heart seeks knowledge,
    but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.
All the days of the oppressed are wretched,
    but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.
Better a little with the fear of the Lord
    than great wealth with turmoil.
Better a small serving of vegetables with love
    than a fattened calf with hatred.

Proverbs 15:12-17

Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

Matthew 19:21-24

For the Christian, happiness comes from obedience to God, not wealth. It comes from seeking wisdom, not avoiding correction. It comes from knowing where our priorities really ought to lie, in having a peaceful heart willed with love.

Jesus says, “Come follow me.” Are we willing to do what it takes to follow?

Ethan Kirl