Proverbs 27:23-24 (ESV)
23 Know well the condition of your flocks,
and give attention to your herds,
24 for riches do not last forever;
and does a crown endure to all generations?
In the ancient Near East, the one who owned flocks and livestock was wealthy. He would employ servants to oversee his affairs. He would employ servants to oversee his affairs. Proper management of the wealthy man’s assets required diligent effort, and the son is exhorted to remain involved in managing the estate, rather than delegating all his responsibilities to those underneath him. Animals need food, water, shelter, and care. The son must not become lazy or weary, but instead always work hard, and invest personally into his herds with kindness. He must remember the transitory nature of the things in this life, and never assume that his assets will always be there for him. The wise person recognizes that power and wealth in this life belong to her for only a brief time. Soon we will stand before the Lord, and see how the decisions we made while on earth had (or didn’t have) a lasting impact. Make time for things of eternal value today.