Proverbs 30:7-9 (ESV)
7 Two things I ask of you;
deny them not to me before I die:
8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying;
give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with the food that is needful for me,
9 lest I be full and deny you
and say, “Who is the Lord?”
or lest I be poor and steal
and profane the name of my God.
The author, Agur, asked the Lord for protection and help regarding two specific things before he died: to be kept from deceit and to be graced with daily needs. Agur was aware of the temptations that can result from having too little or too much. When one struggles to exist, she may be driven to steal. When one becomes too wealthy, she may cease depending upon the Lord. The author considered what would bring most glory to God. He didn’t ask for wisdom to manage riches, but for moderation to walk consistently as a follower of the Lord. If he sinned, he would bring shame to the reputation of God and his people, and if he were full, he might ignore the Lord. What are you asking God for in prayer? Do you request that God would give you whatever would bring most glory to his name? Or are you seeking your own glory today?