“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it” (Prov 10:22).
Here is an encouraging word from the Lord. It is an assurance that the good and beneficial blessings our Father bestows upon us will enrich our lives. In addition, He promises us help in avoiding the sorrow that often goes with earthly increase and promotion.
In the original version, the Hebrew word translated sorrow is ‘etseb (eh’tseb) and is defined as “physical toil, emotional pain and anguish, mental fatigue and discomfort.”
On the human level, advancement often leads to problems. In our world, the higher a person climbs up the ladder of success, the more risks he encounters. Many times, the inner price of outer success is a heavy one indeed.
In this verse, wise Solomon assures us that it is not so in the kingdom of God. Our loving Father blesses and enriches His children while at the same time deflecting any grief that might tend to accompany and spoil the joy of His benedictions.
It is as though the Lord is saying to us: “My blessings are not sweet and sour. I am not going to make you both happy and miserable. I do not open My hand to pour out blessing and sorrow at the same time.”
One scholar has written concerning this verse: “Whatever we receive in the way of providential benefits has God’s blessing in it and will do us good. Cares, troubles, and difficulties come with all property not acquired in this way. God’s blessing gives simple enjoyment and levies no taxes upon the comfort we receive.”
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.