Solomon teaches that adversity and difficulty reveal whether a person will respond with wisdom or folly. The wise exercise self-control under oppression, are patient and humble in uncertain situations, are “slow to anger,” and learn to live contentedly in the present. Though wealth offers some protection, “wisdom giveth life to them that have it,” and is therefore better than riches.

The apostle Peter reminds us that “ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house,” with Christ as the living and chief corner stone. As stones fitted together, each believer has a place in the church of Christ, shaped and joined in love, growing steadily into a dwelling place for God through the Spirit.