The True Source of Peace

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.   –I Timothy 6:10

 

I have noticed for a long time that when I am watching the news and the story turns to issues related to the economy, that the footage is often from the US mint.  You know what I’m talking about; the reporter is narrating about the shape of the economy and all the while we are seeing images of money being printed, cut, and bundled into stacks.  Do you suppose people are watching this and thinking, “Wow, but I’d love to have a few stacks of those $100.00 bills?”  I confess that my mind has wandered to such thoughts on numerous occasions.  Countless people could no doubt use some extra funds to get caught up on their bills and outstanding debts.  So, when we see all that footage of those stacks of cash it’s kind of like showing pictures of food to a hungry man.

The Scripture reminds us that money is by no means the solution to life’s problems.  In fact, money has created terrible heartache and problems in peoples’ lives.  People often think that if they just had more money they would be happy.  However, they find out that money is by no means the answer to their problems.  Some of the wealthiest people in the world have also been the unhappiest.  In fact, I have known personally numerous people who had at their disposal tremendous wealth, but their outlook on life was anything but positive.  The old saying about money not being able to buy happiness may sound cliché, but it is certainly true. 

True peace comes not from wealth, but from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  When Christ is at the center of our lives we come to a blessed realization: God will provide for all of our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).  Regardless of our station in life we can live in the wonderful blessings of God.  He will be with us to love, guide, empower, and give that blessed peace that passes all understanding.  We will be reminded from day to day that our peace and joy comes not in the accumulation of wealth and possessions, but rather from having Jesus Christ in our hearts. 

Be thankful today and rely upon the Lord.  He knows we have needs, and He will provide.