Silver and Gold

When the world talks about value, it often refers to the value of silver and gold. The value of each depends on its purity, weight and market value. Many times the value of silver and gold will fluctuate depending what value the world places on it. In fact, some of our financial standards depend on the value placed on both. Unlike gold and silver, isn't it amazing that our value does not fluctuate in God's eyes. Regardless of the current "market" (according to the world), we remain precious in His sight!

The Bible often speaks of silver and gold. There are several verses in the Book of Proverbs including 3:13-18 which speaks of the value in finding true wisdom: Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding; For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold.  She is more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who retain her. As well as Proverbs 16:16 which says, How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.

One of my favorite verses that references silver and gold comes from the Book of Acts (3:6-7). Peter and John are in the temple area when a man, crippled from birth, is carried and placed near the temple gate to beg. In reading Scripture, we find that this man was brought there every day so that he could ask for money. On this particular day, the beggar interacts with Peter and John hoping they can give him what he needs. Unlike most, that probably just walked by him, both Peter and John turn their attention toward this man and asks him to do the same. It is then that the beggar's life is transformed by the power of Jesus. In verse six, Peter gives the man something more valuable than money, Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk. And at that very moment, the beggar takes Peter's hand, stands up and walks for the very first time in his life! He then begins to jump and shout praises through the temple courtyard. The beggar finally received the greatest gift possible: Jesus.

While both silver and gold have value, neither can ever compare to the life-changing power of an encounter with the great I Am...

Pastor Aaron