When riches accumulate, pomp and pride become more insidious. As a result, one’s character is lowered. Vemana says that when one loses wealth, his bad qualities also become too weak to hurt him and others. (SSS Vol. 15, p. 2)
Of course, riches are essential, but surplus riches, riches that give worry, anxiety, and pain are not desirable at all. One should not seek to acquire riches to that extent. (DhyV, p. 58)
Riches are a great handicap in the path of spiritual progress. So, though you may be rich, do not cultivate attachment to the bank account or to the mansions, cars and comforts you command. Have them as if they are given to you on trust by the Lord. (SSS Vol.4, p. 266)
Good conduct alone is our real wealth. Good qualities alone constitute our real Aishvarya (treasure). An unsullied character, expressing itself in a pure and perfect life, constitutes the most precious riches one can possess. Good conduct, good qualities and an exemplary character are the most valuable riches one can possess. But men today have given up these three and are seeking worldly goods and, immersed in their own concerns, are imagining that they are leading pious lives. The Divine cannot be attained through such delusions. All the teachings one listens to, the books one studies and the education one receives, are only serving to nourish these delusions and not helping men to seek the Divine. (SSS Vol.21, p. 55)