Proverbs 1:13-14 (ESV)
13 we shall find all precious goods,
we shall fill our houses with plunder;
14 throw in your lot among us;
we will all have one purse”—
People doing what seems right in their own eyes may justify enticing others to join them by making promises of financial gain. In joining the “gang,” a new member could gain access to all sorts of precious things. What a temptation for the one who struggles to earn a day’s living! If she follows and invests with them, she could be financially “set.” The community purse would meet every member’s needs and desires. Surely a woman could gain much by exploiting others alongside her new “pack” or “tribe”! Though we may not murder to get another woman’s “stuff,” many use relationships for personal benefit. Those who live for themselves often see people as commodities or avenues for gain to be exploited. They look at others and think, What can I get from this relationship? How will this “friendship” benefit me? Do you use people to serve your own agenda? Or do you share what God has graced you with and invest in others? Make sure you are willing to give in proportion to what you have received, and run from any groups or schemes that encourage you to take advantage of those in your social circles.