“Smart” Money Matters

“Smart” Money Matters

 

The Bible addresses the subject of money and possessions around 2,300 times with verses portraying financial management as a matter of stewardship rather than ownership—smart management of the Lord’s assets. I am not a fan of ‘name it and claim it’ theology because its roots do not respect the Bible’s teachings. So, the following thoughts are practical realities I have witnessed, and the scriptures obviously convey to us.

Our focus needs to be on God-given wisdom in the form of long-term stewardship to avoid the modern emphasis on get-rich-quick schemes. People fall for these modern tricks basically because we are greedy for financial gain. Yes, real wisdom is essentially practical and not merely theoretical and certainly not designed to feed our greed. God advocates building wealth gradually through diligent labor, avoiding reckless debt, and prioritizing practical wisdom over pure financial increases. These timeless principles emphasize enduring money management, generosity, and financial discipline over ridiculously ‘quick’ money, convenient ‘easy’ payment plans and living from ‘paycheck to paycheck.’

We will only consider actionable “smart money” maneuvers for wealth management for God’s glory:

1. Choose Hard Work over Quick Riches Schemes

The Bible glorifies hard work and fair wages, warning against an “entitlement mindset” or acquiring wealth dishonestly.

• Proverbs 13:11, Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. God highlights the multiplied dangers of get-rich-quick schemes and certain ‘advantages,’ contrasting them with the slow, steady growth of patient labor.
• Wealth gained by dishonesty comes in haste or without exertion. This would include the money won by gambling, sweepstakes, or stock market speculation. This kind of wealth has a way of leaking out of a man’s hands. Wealth gained by honest labor accumulates instead of dwindling.^[1]
• Proverbs 10:4, He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

·        Proverbs 14:23, In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

Proverbs heavily condemn get-rich-quick schemes and overnight windfalls, advocating instead for slow, steady accumulation—compounding interest. Slow and steady wealth creation relies on the power of compounding and consistent, disciplined habits over decades rather than high-risk “get-rich-quick” schemes. This long-term strategy focuses on automating your finances, investing in diversified funds, and avoiding the trap of lifestyle creep.

• The attitude: Dishonest money gains will dwindle away, but income saving and gathering money little by little will compound and grow. (see Proverbs 13:11)
• The action: Focus on patient, intelligent effort and consistent savings rather than financial windfalls. “Money can grow by being accumulated honestly little by little.”^[2]

2. Employ Saving Strategies and Plan for the Future

Proverbs advise storing up resources for future needs and emergencies rather than spending everything immediately. God discourages hasty, impulsive expenditures and encourages calculating costs beforehand, living within our means, and saving to meet anticipated requirements.

• Proverbs 21:20, There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up. Smart money involves planning for the future, planning expenditures—budgeting, building reserves, and resisting the urge to spend everything immediately.
• The contrast here is between the cottage of the wise man where there is a plentiful supply of all good things, and the home of a foolish man where sin, waste, and extravagance lead to scarcity.
• We are reminded of the alcoholic who used to sell his furniture and other household goods in order to buy whiskey. After his conversion to Christ, someone said to him, “You don’t really believe that stuff about Jesus’ turning water into wine, do you?” His answer was, “I don’t know about turning water into wine, but I know that in my house He turned whiskey into furniture!”^[3]

·        Proverbs 23:4-5, Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. God advises against exhausting oneself in the pursuit of wealth, noting that sudden riches can vanish quickly.

Financial preparation and foresight are frequently praised in God’s word, comparing prudent financial habits to the instinctive preparation of an ant (Prov. 6:6-8). Such instincts move the ant to hardwired behaviors of survival, maintenance, and future planning without central leadership.

• The attitude: healthy saving strategies are employed habitually, and hasty waste is routinely avoided. (see Proverbs 21:20)
• The action: Save a portion of your income for investing instead of immediately consuming every resource you acquire.

Planning and ‘diversification’ are expressed in Ecclesiastes 11:2 which advises spreading our resources, much like modern variation strategies, to protect against unforeseen disasters and unpredictable future hardships. Also invest a fixed dollar amount on a regular schedule (like every month), regardless of market fluctuations. This allows you to buy more shares when prices are low and fewer when they are high.

3. Select Honesty and Integrity over Debt Bondage

‘Avoid debt’ is God’s counsel in Proverbs 22:7. Warning us that the borrower is slave to the lender, discouraging the accumulation of burdensome debt.

• Proverbs 22:7, The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. The Bible recognizes debt as a form of financial bondage and encourages us believers to live within our means.
• Money is power, and it can be used for good or for evil. Too often the rich use it for evil, and perhaps that is why it is called the mammon of unrighteousness.
• The borrower is a slave to the lender. Debt is a form of bondage. It requires the payment of exorbitant interest rates. It keeps a man’s nose to the grindstone. It limits his mobility and his ability to take advantage of opportunities.^[4]
• Proverbs 11:1, A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. Business and financial dealings must remain honest and completely free of deception. It is vital we keep our priorities on the Lord! Again, deceptive business practices, involving rigged measurements and exploiting unsuspecting buyers highlights God’s hatred of cheating and taking advantage of others for personal gain.

These are stark warnings against the loss of financial freedom that comes with borrowing and manipulation. Greed is often at the root of deceptive ploys and tactics.

• The attitude: Recognize the affluent reigns over the broke, and the borrower is a financial slave to the creditor. (see Proverbs 22:7)
• The action: Live strictly within your means and avoid unnecessary debt to maintain control over your financial life—avoid using credit or credit cards to extend your income.

4. Cultivate Generosity and Contentment as Guiding Principles

As believers we want to remain cognizant that everything belongs to our Creator-God as the central concept. He owns all things, and believers are simply managers of His resources.

Contentment then involving the pursuit of riches is discouraged (Heb. 13:5); instead, scripture promotes contentment and trusting God for security rather than money (Matt. 6:24; Luke 12:15; 1 Tim. 6:10). While being wealthy is not a problem, depending on our wealth as a means of security is! Materialism is not the answer, dependence on God is.  

Proverbs 11:25, The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

God tells us that wealth is a blessing meant to be shared, which often leads to deeper contentment and further blessing.

• The attitude: A generous person will prosper in the Lord; when we have given to refresh others, we will be compensated accordingly as needed. (see Proverbs 11:25)
• The action: Practice regular giving to break the blinding power of money and keep a healthy perspective on wealth. This is exemplary living that may include financial sacrifices to the Lord at times (2Cor. 8:1-5).

Believers are urged to give cheerfully and support the poor, the church’s ministers, missions, and other churches (2Cor. 8:6-24; 9:6-15).

5. Prioritize Godly Wisdom over Amassing Material Wealth

• Proverbs 16:16, How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver. The foundational premise of biblical money management is that the pursuit of wisdom, integrity, and a “good name” yields much higher returns than plain money could ever secure.
• Fearing God is necessary because His sovereign presence hovers over all of life to determine the success or failure of human plans and programs. Fearing God is meaningful because those who do so can count on His care in any circumstance they meet. “The Lord’s eyes” is a shorthand way to express the dependability of His presence and the versatility of His care. That presence and that care, according to our catalog of the proverbs, find Yahweh at work…. ^[5]

While we acknowledge that hard work and smart money management naturally lead to material prosperity, we are warned against making mere wealth our primary focus.  

• The attitude: It is more beneficial to get God’s wisdom than the finest gold, to have God’s perspective rather than mere earthly treasures! (see Proverbs 16:16)
• The action: Do not wear yourself out to become rich; know when to practice restraint. Seek God’s guidance daily, practice regular generosity, and view money as a temporary tool to honor Him, rather than the ultimate goal of life.

Ecclesiastes 5:10; Proverbs 11:28 and Proverbs 28:20, also teach those who “love money” will never have enough; those who trust in their riches will fall, and those eager to get rich will not go scot-free. These guidelines are still relevant though nearly forgotten in this get-rich-quick, social media driven, fast credit, debt driven culture. Yes, God speaks to these subjects on wealth, possessions, and giving. We must not view ‘money’ as a naturally wicked topic; scripture treats it as a compelling, morally neutral compass that reveals our heart’s priorities and acts as a spiritual discipline. Many college bills, new cars, credit card debts, and social media influencers would disappear if we gave God’s wisdom even a little serious attention.

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^[1] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 823.

^[2] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 933.

^[3] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 846.

^[4] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 848.

^[5] David A. Hubbard and Lloyd J. Ogilvie, Proverbs, vol. 15, The Preacher’s Commentary Series (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Inc, 1989), 236.

Am I a Wise Man?

Am I a Wise Man?

Proverbs 1:7

Once more we see God’s value system is different from the average person’s. He describes “wisdom” not as mere human intelligence or being brainy like we do, but as respecting Him first and paying attention to the profitable counsel from His Word. So, a ‘wise man’ leads a lifestyle of moral integrity or honesty, humility, and agreement/obedience to God.

Regarding biblical wisdom, “fear” again is not referring to being terrified of punishment. Instead, this is a deep, reverent awe and healthy respect for God. It includes recognizing that He is the Creator, the ultimate authority, and the judge of all that is right. By starting here, we acknowledge our own limitations and align ourselves with the fundamental moral order of God.

The essence of true knowledge is fearing God. Apart from Him a person is ignorant of spiritual things (Rom. 1:22; Eph. 4:18; 1 Peter 1:14).^[1]

If you wonder if you are ‘wise’, God offer clear statements to help us reflect on. These primary verses provide specific ways to measure our wisdom.

What Can I Learn from the Book of Proverbs?

God views a wise man as someone who pursues humility, seeks counsel, and reveres Him. He is characterized by emotional control, diligence, careful speech, and a lifelong desire to learn.

Basic qualities of a wise man in Proverbs include:

1.     His Foundation is in God: The Bible states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" (Proverbs 1:7). A wise man trusts in God rather than relying solely on his own understanding.

If a man wants to be wise, the place to begin is in reverencing God and in trusting and obeying Him. What is more reasonable than that the creature should trust his Creator? On the other hand, what is more illogical than for a man to reject God’s Word and to live by his own hunches? The wise thing to do is to repent of one’s sins, trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and then live for Him wholeheartedly and devotedly.^[2]

• The Character Statement: “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.” (James 3:13)
• The Worldly Wisdom Evaluation: “Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.” (1 Corinthians 3:18)

True wisdom is fundamentally rooted in the “fear of the LORD” (a deep reverence and respect for God) and applying His lessons to everyday experiences.

2. He Listens to Counsel with a Desire to Learn: A wise man is teachable, actively increasing his learning and seeking guidance, whereas a fool despises instruction and thinks he needs no advice.
• The Teachability Examination: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.” (Proverbs 12:15)
• The Humility Acid Test: “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:7)

Unlike a fool who thinks he is always right, a wise man listens to advice, accepts correction, and learns from his mistakes.

3.    He Controls His Temper: Rather than being reckless or quick-tempered, he stays calm, restrains his anger, and overlooks insults.

o   God very directly says control your temper in Proverbs 16:32: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”

• James 1:19: Advises being "swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath".

o   Ephesians 4:26: Advises dealing with anger immediately rather than letting it fester.

In this better … than proverb (see comments on 12:9) having patience and a controlled temper is honored above being a soldier. In a land where safety depended on might and skill in warfare, this statement may seem surprising. Yet conquering oneself (cf. 14:17, 29; 25:28; 29:11) is of greater virtue than conquering a city.^[3]

4. He Uses Restrained and Helpful Speech: A truly wise person speaks carefully and uses few words. His words are known to bring healing rather than acting rashly like a sword.
• The Speech Appraisal: “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.” (Proverbs 10:19)
• Proverbs 29:11, 14:29, & 15:1: Focus on wisdom over folly, urging a calm spirit and using soft words to calm conflicts.
• Proverbs 25:28: Compares lack of self-control to a broken-down city.

The more we talk, the greater is the probability of saying something wrong. Compulsive talkers should beware! The lust for incessant conversation often leads to exaggeration, breaking of confidences, and associated sins. Trying to top someone else’s joke often mushrooms into off-color stories.

The man who exercises self-control in his speech is wise. He saves himself from embarrassment, apologies, and outright sin.

10:20 What a good man says is a reflection of what he is. Because his character is sterling, so is his speech. Since the heart (or mind) of the wicked man is not worthwhile, neither is the conversation that flows from it.^[4]

A wise person restrains their speech, avoiding gossip, anger, and hasty words in favor of gracious and truthful communication.

5.   He is a Diligent and Productive Worker:

God provides strong motivation for a productive work ethic, urging believers to work with diligence and integrity as an act of service to Him. God highlights the importance of hard work, offering wisdom for both daily tasks and career focus.

o   Proverbs 14:23: Emphasizes that hard work brings profit, while idle talk brings poverty.

o   Proverbs 22:29: Notes that diligent workers gain recognition and distinction.

o   Proverbs 13:4: Highlights how the diligent will be fulfilled, while the lazy will lack.

o   Proverbs 10:4: Connects a diligent hand with prosperity.

God heartily endorses excellence, purpose, diligence, reward, skill, and integrity for employers and employees. Colossians 3:23, encourages working heartily for the Lord rather than men. Ecclesiastes 9:10, instructs doing all tasks with your full strength. 1 Corinthians 10:31, advises doing everything for the glory of God.

6.    He Looks Ahead with Discretion: He exercises discretion and caution, anticipating danger and turning away from evil, while a fool is reckless and arrogant. ‘Discretion’ is the ability to use godly wisdom to protect yourself from harm, avoid foolish mistakes, and respond calmly to others.

o   Proverbs 2:11, “Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:” This verse highlights that exercising good judgment acts as a guardrail against dangerous paths.

o   Proverbs 19:11, “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to overlook a transgression.” Self-control and knowing when to let something go reflect true character.

o   Psalm 112:5, “A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.” In daily matters the righteous manage their responsibilities wisely.

Wisdom brings discernment. A wise man is vigilant, avoids dangerous paths, and flees from temptation.

7.    He Keeps Good Company: Whoever walks with wise men becomes wise, much like iron sharpens iron.

o   Proverbs 13:20, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” Those with whom you surround yourself will shape your own character and future. Walking with the wise leads to wisdom, while associating with fools (the biblically unwise or rebellious) leads to ruin.

o   1 Corinthians 15:33, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” God warning us against being misled. Spending time with negative influences, unwholesome speech, or those who disregard God’s values will ultimately ruin your own good character and habits.

One way to become wise is to associate with wise people, including companions and teachers. Conversely to associate with fools brings problems.^[5]

What Can I Learn from the Lord Jesus?

1.     The chief quality of a “wise man” is obedience to God through adherence to his word.

2.    Jesus illustrates this concept on a real-world level referring to the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27).

3.    Jesus showed:

·        The Wise Man: Represents anyone who hears Jesus' teachings and puts them into practice. Because their life is built on a solid foundation of obedience, they can withstand the storms and trials of life.

·        The Foolish Man: Hears the teachings of Christ but ignores them. When life gets difficult, their house (life) collapses because it lacks the strong foundation of adherence.

In conclusion Jesus presented the two options open to His listeners. They were now responsible for what they had heard and must make a choice. They could build on one of two foundations. One foundation was likened to a big rock and the other to sand. The foundation determines the ability of a structure to withstand the elements (rain and winds). The rock foundation represented the Lord Himself and the truths He had been presenting, especially the truth concerning inner transformation. The sand spoke of Pharisaic righteousness which the people knew and on which many were basing their hopes. In storms the first would give stability; the second would result in destruction. Thus hearing and heeding Jesus’ words is wise; one who does not is foolish. Only two courses of action are possible—two kinds of roads and gates (Matt. 7:13–14), two kinds of trees and fruit (vv. 15–20), two kinds of foundations and builders (vv. 24–27).^[6]

Conclusion:

It is wise to walk in King Solomon’s wisdom. Clearly, King Solomon is widely regarded as the wisest man ever. When God offered him anything he desired, Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people well (1 Kings 3). Such wisdom became legendary. However, the Bible also teaches that even Solomon’s adherence faltered later in life when he strayed from God’s guidelines—reminding us that godly wisdom requires lifelong, active faithfulness and continuous application. So, where are you concerning God’s wisdom?

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^[1] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 908.

^[2] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 792.

^[3] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 942.

^[4] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 815.

^[5] Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 934.

^[6] Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 34–36.

Strength to Overcome Greed

“Overcoming Greed”

Prov. 3:5-6; Luke 12:15; Col. 3:5; 1 Tim. 6:10

THEME: You Can Overcome the Frustrations by the Wisdom and Strength of the Lord.  

RELEVANCE: Why is this important to us? We need to understand the source of our frustrations is Satan (these are spiritual battles) and trust the Lord to help us overcome these hindrances. God prescribes specific practices to escape the trap of greed like contentment, generosity, and appreciation.   

INTRODUCTION:

Do you feel trapped in disappointing cycles? Never satisfied with your income? Perhaps you are encountering myriads of worldly desires? What about the many forms of wickedness working in your heart? Perhaps it’s unchecked cravings for ‘more’ or distractions to your faith? Periodically you sense your struggles are self-induced and soaked with conflicts, but aren’t sure what to do. You may even feel your greed destroying both internal peace and relationships.  

Frustration can be caused by greed. It seems the more people want, the more there is to want. Greed is the insatiable, selfish desire for wealth, possessions, or power. Scripture explicitly warns against it, linking the “love of money” to all kinds of evil and classifying excessive, covetous desire as a form of “idolatry”. So, how do we experience victory?

MESSAGE: 

I.  FRUSTRATION COULD BE EVIDENCE OF GREED.

Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

This famous passage offers a blueprint for faithful living and decision-making. It contrasts our own limited human perspective with God’s infinite wisdom. We are challenge to place complete, undivided reliance on God; placing our confidence in His character and promises, rather than just acknowledging Him when it is convenient. God urges us to invite Him into every area of our life. ‘Acknowledging Him’ entails intentionally seeking His will, praying about decisions, and aligning your actions with His principles.

“He shall direct thy paths” is a promise the Lord will give genuine direction as we trust Him. Seeking His guidance and wisdom requires prayer and scripture for clarity, and remain open to His leading, even if it differs from your plans. Also, surround yourself with God-fearing counselors to help discern God’s path.

John 10:10, The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Satan seeks to draw us away from God. Jesus was warning against false leaders, selfish motives, and legalism empowered by Satan that will rob us of peace and truth. Jesus’ promise does not guarantee financial wealth or an easy, trouble-free life. Instead, it refers to a rich spiritual life characterized by inner peace, joy, forgiveness, and a close walk with God that begins now and extends into eternity. While the religious leaders were acting like self-serving ‘thieves,’ Jesus came to bring protection, salvation, and real fulfillment.

But many people respond to this ‘promise’ with frustration that results in compulsive and obsessive behaviors. These ideas are also frequently associated with perfectionism to seize what we treasure. Compulsions and obsessions are traps, not blessings. They drive a person to pursue something until he gains it, regardless of who may be hurt in the process or what damage may be caused.

A.  OUR FRUSTRATIONS ARE OFTEN ROOTED IN GREED.

Luke 12:15, And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

This is Jesus’ definitive warning against greed and the false belief that material wealth equals a successful or secure life. The Bible teaches that frustration rooted in greed is a direct result of placing misplaced trust in wealth rather than God. Because selfish desires are insatiable, greed guarantees continuous disappointment, destroys peace, and traps people in a cycle of endless striving.

1.      The Deception of Disappointments: The pursuit of wealth breeds emptiness. “He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 5:10). The very nature of greed thrives on insatiability and traps a person in perpetual dissatisfaction.

2.      The Cause of Multiple Evils: Unchecked craving for money distracts from faith and causes deep internal pain. “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.” (1 Timothy 6:10). The pursuit of wealth often leads to ruin and destructive desires.

3.      Personally Brought on Conflicts: Greed destroys both internal peace and relationships. “He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.” (Proverbs 28:25). The Book of Proverbs also warns that ‘a greedy person stirs up strife’ and ‘troubles his own household’ through dishonest or selfish actions.

If you struggle with a general feeling of frustration…that there's ‘more’ you believe you should have in your life. You find yourself craving more recognition, more approval, more validation, more likes, more opportunities, more rights, more ‘free’ stuff, more privileges, more things, more power, more money, and more appreciation. This desire for more is a form of disappointment, frustration, dissatisfaction, or even irritation.

This is why we have more psychiatrists, try to increase the bank accounts, use tranquilizers, lead mixed-up lives, and use sleeping pills. Some use drugs and alcohol to numb themselves of the disappointments. Take a good look at the average person…their minds and bodies, reveal a life of turmoil and frustration. 

Jesus’ Parable of the Rich Fool illustrate the inevitable consequences of greed (Luke 12:13-21): Jesus tells a story about a man who imagine building larger barns to hoard his wealth instead of being “rich toward God” (generous to others in need). The man dies that very night, highlighting the folly of hoarding things you cannot take with you.

B.  IT IS VITAL WE PINPOINT EXACTLY WHAT IS IMPORTANT.

Jesus insisted, ‘We cannot serve both God and money’ (see Matt. 6:24). He urges us to be on guard against all kinds of greed, adding that our life is not defined by the large quantity of assets we may have. Colossians 3:5 equates “covetousness” or greed to “idolatry” because it replaces devotion to God with the worship of material gain.

First, take God’s word on guarding against greed and keeping the proper perspective on wealth:

1.     Proverbs 15:27: "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live."

2.     Proverbs 28:16: "The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days."

3.     Matthew 6:19-20: "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven..."

4.     1 Timothy 6:6-10: "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out..."

5.     Hebrews 13:5: "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

Secondly, I invite you to pause for a moment and reflect about the things that you truly value in life. What would you not want to lose? What do you most desire to have when you are ninety years old?

Most people who identify what they truly value in life will list such things as

• a long, fruitful, and fulfilled life;
• good health and real growth in the Lord;
• a loving circle of family and friends;
• the blessings of eternal life now and with the Lord;
• a sense of achieving God’s purpose and will;
• inner peace and joy; and
• a solid impact on this world for Christ’s sake

I have good news and bad news regarding these things. The bad news is that you cannot get any of these things on your own no matter how much you want or think you deserve them. You cannot buy them from a department store, earn them with your dedication, or acquire them through really trying hard. The good news is that these are the very things that the Lord desires for many of us to have and that He will help us to experience as you trust in Him! (C. Stanley)

Again, greed is that insatiable, selfish desire for wealth, possessions, or power. God repeatedly and explicitly warn against it, linking the “love of money” (1Tim. 6:10) to all kinds of evil and classifying excessive, covetous desire as a form of idolatry (Col 3:5).

C. GREED CAN BE CONQUERED BY THE BELIEVER!

Instead of falling into the trap of greed, God prescribes “contentment.” True peace comes from a shift in perspective, recognizing that material accumulation does not define a person's worth. God prescribe specific practices to overcome the trap of greed:

1.     Watch Your Heart: “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. (Luke 12:15). Stay on guard against all forms of greed; there is far more to you than merely your stuff.

2.   Choose this Godly Perspective—Contentment: “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” (1 Timothy 6:6-7). Godly contentment is an inward state of peace and satisfaction that relies on God’s control rather than external circumstances. It is rooted in the belief that God provides exactly what is needed for present well-being, it detaches happiness from wealth or changing situations. Paul taught that “godliness with contentment is great gain”, finding ultimate satisfaction in faith in Christ rather than mere possessions.

3.   Give Generously to the Needy: God encourages giving generously and sharing with the poor as a means of breaking the grip of materialism on the soul.

4.   Practice Gratitude Habitually: Believers are called to practice gratitude, recognizing that everything comes from God and that earthly wealth is temporary.

 Conclusion:

If you are dealing with a specific situation and would like to explore practical or spiritual guidance, consider these thoughts:

·        What area of life is causing you to feel this frustration? (e.g., finances, career, personal relationships)

·        Are there specific goals you are currently striving for?