Written within the Declaration of independence is a phrase that describes the unalienable rights of every American. These rights are found in the phrase: "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
Every American, and even beyond the borders of the United States of America, dreams of one day having the American Dream life. Everyone wants riches, honor/fame and life. People want to be successful and feel accomplished throughout their life.
To get to this point in their life, every American strives to work their way from the bottom to the top. There are no shortcuts in the successful realm of life. All must put in the hard work to achieve this goal in life.
Yet, as I read Proverbs 22, I actually find an entirely different path to this success. Solomon, who had his fair share of wealth and fame, states in verse 4:
By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.
What people are searching for is not found in "America." This pursuit of life, liberty and happiness can only be found in God. The road to achieve these rewards is a road of dedication, discipline and love for our Savior. There are no shortcuts to this reward.
Those who truly fear the Lord will be those who are truly lowly in heart (humble).
Humility only stems from a right relationship with the Lord.
The Lord will then reward those who are faithful to Him.
So, the question must be asked: If riches, honor and life are only found in the humble Christian who is fearing the Lord, will you be receiving this reward?
The pursuit of all these things is only found in the pursuit of God Himself.