He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. (Prov. 10:4)

We are here told, 1. Who those are who, though rich, are in a fair way to become poor–those who deal with a slack hand, who are careless and remiss in their business, and never mind which end goes foremost, nor ever set their hands vigorously to their work or stick to it; those who deal with a deceitful hand (so it may be read); those who think to enrich themselves by fraud and tricking will, in the end, impoverish themselves, not only by bringing the curse of God on what they have, but by forfeiting their reputation with men; none will care to deal with those who deal with sleight of hand and are honest only with good looking to. 2. Who those are who, though poor, are in a fair way to become rich–those who are diligent and honest, who are careful about their affairs, and, what their hands find to do, do it with all their might, in a fair and honourable way, those are likely to increase what they have. The hand of the acute (so some), of those who are sharp, but not sharpers; the hand of the active (so others); the stirring hand gets a penny. This is true in the affairs of our souls as well as in our worldly affairs; slothfulness and hypocrisy lead to spiritual poverty, but those who are fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, are likely to be rich in faith and rich in good works. —MATTHEW HENRY COMMENTARY

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2023 – Biblical Economics – A Biblical approach to personal finance grounded in the economic theology of the Puritans. Goes over important concepts like providence, callings, worldly-mindedness, increasing income, budgeting, saving money, investing, financial lifestyles, and giving to the poor. 370 pages.

Biblical Economics is a monumental book. The author has packed so much into its pages that it is more like an encyclopedia than a book. In fact, I think of it as library on the subjects of (1) what the Bible says about work and money, (2) what the Protestant/Puritan tradition has said about work and money, and (3) what a Christian needs to know about the contemporary financial scene. For anyone seeking information and edification on these subjects, Biblical Economics is a one-stop destination. – Dr. Leland Ryken, author of Worldly Saints and Redeeming the Time

In one of his enduring adages from Poor Richard’s Almanac, Ben Franklin observed that: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Readers who invest their time studying Biblical Economics will be amazed to discover vital God-breathed knowledge, understanding, and wisdom—also used by the Puritans—that will not only pay the best return for one’s personal finances, but also pay great spiritual dividends as well.  God’s way works!  – Dr. Judd Patton, Professor Emeritus in Economics, Bellevue University

The Bible offers ample advice on the right way to earn, spend, and save money. But you need to know where to look for it. John is an expert guide who knows how timeless advice can be put to work in our everyday here and now. – Dr. Benedikt Koehler, Fellow of the Economics of Religion, Institute of Economic Affairs

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Larry Burkett, Business By the Book: The Complete Guide of Biblical Principles for the Workplace (Thomas Nelson, 1998).

Richard Steele, The Religious Tradesman (Sprinkle Publications, 1989).

William Mathews, Getting On in the World (S. C. Griggs, 1872).

Irvin Wyllie, The Self-Made Man in America (The Free Press, 1954).

Entrepreneur Magazine.