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. –I Timothy 6:10 (KJV)
The other day I was reading an online article about
famous athletes who once had millions of dollars in their possession,
but are now broke. They lost everything through poor financial
decisions combined with reckless and extravagant spending. Many
of them squandered fortunes of 100 million or more. As I read
the article I pondered again the elusiveness of wealth. Most of
us cannot imagine having such riches at our disposal and we conclude
we would surely do better. I am reminded how countless people
have had the same thought, yet when financial blessings came their way
their too lacked the wisdom to properly manage it.
The Word of God reminds us of how money is a root
of all evil. Wealth has the potential to quickly corrupt us and
pull us away from God’s will for our lives. When managed with
wisdom, integrity, and perspective, wealth does not control us.
But if we lack godly wisdom for managing our finances we end up letting
our money control us which in turn creates frustration and pain.
As I have said before, I have known people who possessed tremendous
wealth, yet they were unhappy and bitter. On the other hand, I
have known, and do know, many people who are not what we might call
wealthy, but they are contented and living life to the fullest all the
while grateful for what they have. Truly, it’s about having
a right relationship with Christ, which empowers us to keep life, our
problems, and our possessions in proper perspective.
Solomon, one of the wealthiest men who ever lived,
looked at all his money and possessions and declared, “Utterly meaningless!
Everything is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Solomon
came to realize that true peace, joy, and happiness do not rest in the
fortunes we acquire, but in a right relationship with God. From
this platform of wisdom comes a view of life which allows us to distinguish
between what is important and what is not. During these tough
economic times you may feel frustrated over your finances. God
calls us to trust Him, use good judgment, and learn to be contented
with what we have rather than upset over what we do not have.
God is faithful, and as we trust in Him and walk
by faith He will empower us to wisdom in regards to our finances.
Do not despair, but instead be thankful. It’s new day with unlimited
possibilities. Look to the Lord and walk forward in faith and
with a glad and joyful heart.
God bless you today.
