It is the love of money that causes many people to go astray and to seek the things of the world instead of God. This is because their material wealth eventually becomes more important to them than God. Having money is not evil, it is the temptations that fall upon the rich that leads many of them astray. So when it comes to things we should be seeking after instead, doing God’s will comes to mind. As we seek the Lord instead of more money, this is when His righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness come into our lives. Paul wrote about this and said, “but they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:9-12) Eternal life with God is so much more important than money.
Paul also said the following about Jesus, who we need to focus on instead of material wealth and money. “I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; that thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.” (1 Timothy 6:13-16) Please remember that following after Jesus, our Lord, Savior, and God, is much more important than having all the money in the world. So next time somebody is bragging about the money they are making, tell them how much more important God is to you. That they could have a much better life if they simply trusted in God instead of their riches. Therefore, remember what Jesus did for you on the cross and press into Him daily. How blessed and holy is Jesus! Come near to His presence in prayer and worship and praise His holy Name. He is worthy! Amen.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, I pray that You will be ever with me. Help me to not be led astray by money, the things of this world, and into false beliefs. Teach me how to live my life for You daily, and I will do as You command. I’ve had opportunities in life to become very rich, but not once did it seem right in that moment. There was always a compromise with the riches I would gain. And if there is ever something I have to compromise with my faith, it is simply not worth it. You mean more to me than all the riches in the world. It is also not worth leaving my family for a time, in order to earn more money. This is simply a selfish act that would keep me from seeing my beautiful wife and children for a time. It is hard to believe that people can give in to these temptations and leave everything they have worked for behind. As for me, I am grateful that You have not let me go astray when it comes to money. Sure, I still need to learn how to be more content with the money I have and not spend it so easily. Help me in this area and others that I am lacking also. I realize that I am not perfect, but far from it. That is why I need You every hour. Come abide in me this day and forever. I can choose what is right when You are guiding me. I love You. Amen.
