Proverbs 18:11 says: “A rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his own imagination.”
This verse is instructive to us in that it proclaims that the rich man’s wealth is like a wall “in his own IMAGINATION.” It is NOT actually the defense that he thinks it is!
Those of us who are wealthy tend to find security in our riches; we think that if/when we have enough money saved up, it will “insulate” us from problems. But it doesn’t. It is an imaginary “wall” only. There is so much that money cannot buy. It is of limited value in keeping one well; even with so many modern advances, you cannot buy good health even with millions of dollars. Money is of little consolation when one has a broken heart. And it will be absolutely worthless when one dies and faces eternity. No, if you are finding security in your wealth, it is a security that is only “in your own imagination.” And deep down, many people know it – which is why a deep-rooted insecurity plagues their hearts. They know the wealth they trust in will not in the end protect them.
It is also instructive to us that this verse proceeds immediately after :10, which says: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.” There is indeed a genuine tower of refuge, which will save us even at death – but it is not riches; it is the name of the Lord. “Whosoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Trusting Jesus will give you more than just an “illusion” of security, but the real thing!
