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Proverbs 10:2

Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death.

Bernard Lawrence Madoff. Ever heard of him? On December 10, 2008, he confessed to his sons that the asset management arm of his securities investment firm was a giant Ponzi scheme, or as he put it, “one big lie.” For a time, at least, the “big lie” provided a lavish lifestyle for Madoff and his family, but that “big lie” cost his clients $65 billion.

When Madoff and his wife were not on their $7 million yacht, they were hanging out in their $7 million Manhattan apartment, their $3 million Montauk home, ortheir $11 million residence in Palm Beach. And, of course, there was $12.5 million worth of furniture, household goods, art, and jewelry.

Madoff died in prison on April 4, 2021. In the end, his “treasures gained by wickedness” did not profit him. But Madoff lost much more than his freedom; he lost his integrity. A man can live without a lot of things…but not that.

Father, protect us from the glittering treasures that surround us. Keep us from the temptation of shortcuts. Build us as men and women of integrity. Thank you for the imputed righteousness of Jesus that delivers the believer from certain and final death.

In his name.

Amen.

 

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Today’s Journey Message:

 

Multiplying My Influence