Bible and AbundanceSýnishorn

ABUNDANCE - THE LURE OF WEALTH

Guus Kessler was born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth. His grandfather of the same name was behind the success of the oil company, which we now know simply as Shell. His father, also of the same name, was appointed chief executive of Shell during the war years. As the only son in the family of five children, Guus seemed destined to follow in the footsteps of his illustrious grandfather and father.

While studying at Cambridge, he suddenly received a vision in which Jesus appeared to him. This radically changed his life. Eventually, he gave up his promising career in the oil industry to become a missionary in Peru. His father was furious about this and tried to change his son's mind, pointing out that he could do much more for the mission as his successor. Although Guus would inherit substantial capital from his father, he could not claim it as a missionary because of foreign exchange restrictions at that time. His wife Margaret and he had to make do with the modest monthly contribution of $30 per missionary.

Years later, when he could access his money, Guus Kessler used his capital to bless the worldwide evangelical movement. The centre of a large town in Holland is home to many buildings still used by various Christian organisations. A foundation created by Guus Kessler, to which he donated part of his capital, funded them.

Still serving the mission at the age of 92, Guus Kessler now lives in Costa Rica, is active as an author, speaks at conferences and presides every fortnight at the local Evangelical Brethren church. He is still living a very humble life. Skilful and responsible stewardship has enabled him to donate over 40 million to Christian work. He has shown how we can overcome the seductive aspects of wealth by focusing on the kingdom of God rather than on ourselves. There is nothing wrong with wealth or material abundance. As Christians, we should know that it carries specific temptations. Guus Kessler's life shows that we can also use this wealth to serve God's kingdom.

CHALLENGE

Write down the specific temptations for a rich, middle-income, and poor person. In addition, write how we can resist the temptations.