Finding Happiness in Christ (Series 5)Sample

The money that destroys you

A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished. (Proverbs 28:20)

Several years ago, news columnist Jim Bishop reported on what happened to several families who won the lottery.

Rosa won $400 a week during her lifetime in the Washington lottery. She hid in her apartment. For the first time in her life, she struggled with anxiety. Everyone was trying to get something out of it. She once said, “People are so mean. I hope you win the lottery and see what happens to you.”

The McGugarts were thrilled when Pop won the Irish lottery. Pop was a steam plumber, Johnny loaded the crates on the dock, and Tim went to night school. Pop shared his lottery winnings with his two sons. They swore that money would not change their life plans.

A year later, his lottery winnings hadn't run out, but his two sons were no longer talking to Pop or each other. Johnny started gambling, and Tim went after the women. These two children were in the stage of becoming alcoholics. His wife accused Pop of hiding money from her. Within two years, they were all sued for failing to pay their income taxes.

In both cases, the lottery winners had hoped and prayed for sudden wealth. Their prayers were answered. Both of them were corrupted by money. The price of a rich life is more than money can count.

If the grass on the other side of the fence looks greener, you can bet that the water bill will be higher.

Reflection: Happiness and joy cannot be created through wealth. Many rich people are not happy in their lives. Choose to live blessed by God and be a blessing to others, rather than being rich. Living well is not a sin, but if money and possessions are the goals of our life, then it is a big mistake. The Bible tells us not to get rich quickly.

Money can buy sleep but can't buy peace. Entertainment instead of joy. Reputation instead of character. 

(Warren Wiersbe)