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26 September 2008
Word on the Web
1 Timothy 6:6-10
Serving God does make us very rich, if we are satisfied with what we have. We brought nothing into the world, so we can take nothing out. But, if we have food and clothes, we will be satisfied with that. Those who want to become rich bring temptation to themselves and are caught in a trap. They want many foolish and harmful things that ruin and destroy people. The love of money causes all kinds of evil. Some people have left the faith, because they wanted to get more money, but they have caused themselves much sorrow.
Some people really do believe that if you live a good, faithful life, then God will provide everything you need and you'll be rich. Other people believe that it is unchristian to be wealthy. Who's right?
Well this passage doesn't say having money is wrong. It says that 'the love of money causes all kinds of evil'. If you love money you'll be tempted to bend the rules to get it, or to be jealous and resentful of others who have wealth. In other words if you love money it becomes your focus, slowly taking over your priorities. This reading warns against loving money because it takes our focus from God. Our problem is that so much of our culture judges people on what they are paid, how expensive their clothing is or their education was or if they can afford the latest gadget from Apple or whoever else is making something trendy.
We are surrounded by stuff, by the trappings life, so often we forget what really matters. Paul says 'if we have food and clothes, we will be satisfied with that'. So today how satisfied are you? What are you longing for? Do you have enough ... or is there something on your wish list you can't quite get off your mind?
Lord God, so often I look at other people and compare myself to them, wishing I had their talents, wealth or opportunities. Please help me to know your love and acceptance today. When I feel insecure remind me that I am your child and have your unconditional love. Amen
Written by David Booker D J Booker
Word on the Web is provided free of charge as part of the ministry of Church Army.
Word on the Web
1 Timothy 6:6-10
Serving God does make us very rich, if we are satisfied with what we have. We brought nothing into the world, so we can take nothing out. But, if we have food and clothes, we will be satisfied with that. Those who want to become rich bring temptation to themselves and are caught in a trap. They want many foolish and harmful things that ruin and destroy people. The love of money causes all kinds of evil. Some people have left the faith, because they wanted to get more money, but they have caused themselves much sorrow.
Some people really do believe that if you live a good, faithful life, then God will provide everything you need and you'll be rich. Other people believe that it is unchristian to be wealthy. Who's right?
Well this passage doesn't say having money is wrong. It says that 'the love of money causes all kinds of evil'. If you love money you'll be tempted to bend the rules to get it, or to be jealous and resentful of others who have wealth. In other words if you love money it becomes your focus, slowly taking over your priorities. This reading warns against loving money because it takes our focus from God. Our problem is that so much of our culture judges people on what they are paid, how expensive their clothing is or their education was or if they can afford the latest gadget from Apple or whoever else is making something trendy.
We are surrounded by stuff, by the trappings life, so often we forget what really matters. Paul says 'if we have food and clothes, we will be satisfied with that'. So today how satisfied are you? What are you longing for? Do you have enough ... or is there something on your wish list you can't quite get off your mind?
Lord God, so often I look at other people and compare myself to them, wishing I had their talents, wealth or opportunities. Please help me to know your love and acceptance today. When I feel insecure remind me that I am your child and have your unconditional love. Amen
Written by David Booker D J Booker
Word on the Web is provided free of charge as part of the ministry of Church Army.
