Prosperity is the result of hard work, while chasing fantasies and attempting get-rich-quick schemes are the antithesis of prosperity. (Proverbs 12:11)

The diligent man will rule and become the leader in contrast to the man who continually avoids work and neglects preparation. The lazy man will only survive in a forced labor situation (slavery, indebtedness, etc.). (Proverbs 12:24)

A good indication of separation between the diligent who prosper and rule with the fantasizing sluggard is seen in how they care for their earthly possessions. The lazy man doesn’t even put forth effort in preparing his daily meal. The lazy man’s lack of preparation for his day to day needs is contrasted with the diligent man abundantly providing for himself while even caring for his temporal possessions. (Proverbs 12:27)

Once again, this wisdom is often contrary to the view of religions! Here, in the divine proverbs, the champion man of wisdom is diligent in labor, abundant with food, presiding in leadership and vigilant with his earthly possessions. Wisdom says a man of God can manage himself in this world while also being prepared for eternity. Religion often destroys both, leaving a man’s life on earth empty and his soul ill-prepared for eternity. Wisdom is calling in the streets, not necessarily in religious institutions (Proverbs 1:20-33).

1517 – While Johann Tetzel was using the best fundraising gimmick of the Middle Ages, the selling of documents for the forgiveness of sin called indulgences, Martin Luther was attacking the corruption of the church. Luther, a monk serving as a priest and professor in Wittenberg, Germany, wrote 95 points of contention that he had with the church. He publicly posted these 95 theses in 1517 hoping for a debate with the church leaders. He was debated by Tetzel and Johann Eck who charged Luther with heresy. The pope followed in 1520 with a decree condemning Luther. Luther’s books were burned and he was excommunicated. But, Luther responded by publicly burning the official papal decree that the pope issued to him.