PROVERBS 22:1
The financial fraud scheme Charles Ponzi made into a way of life will always be linked to his name. Early in 1920, after committing a few minor financial crimes and spending some time in jail, he started promising investors returns of 50% in 45 days and 100% in 90 days. The money flowed in even though it appeared too good to be true. Ponzi used funds from fresh investors to reimburse previous ones and support his extravagant life. Five banks had failed and investors had lost 20 million dollars by the time his fraud was uncovered in August 1920. Ponzi served three years in prison before being deported to Italy and passing away without a penny in 1949 at the age of 66.
The Old Testament book of Proverbs instructs us to value favour over enormous wealth and to seek a good name above silver and gold (22:1).
We strive for a sterling reputation not for our own benefit but to exalt Christ, our Lord, whose name is above all names.
🙏🏻Lord Jesus, give us the courage to trust and to follow You in the way of right living for Your name’s sake.
