Walking With Jesus (Wisdom)Sample

Ownership 

Be careful with what we have. Our attitudes and views toward ownership determine our future. Lord Jesus explained this through the parable of the dishonest treasurer, who shrewdly managed his master's wealth to make sure that he could still live a prosperous life after being dismissed from his position (Luke 16:1-8). The treasurer was indeed guilty of taking advantage of the wealth that did not belong to him. However, he is said to be smart because he thought about his future using that wealth. We will reap the benefits of our actions in the world to come if we manage everything and use it for righteous deeds toward others. The punishment will surely await us when we use our wealth carelessly to fulfill our flesh desires and,  therefore, neglect our neighbors in need. That is what happened to the rich man in the story of the rich man and the poor Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31.

The Jews of that time viewed being rich as a sign of God's blessing and favor. On the other hand, being poor was considered as a sign of that person's unfaithfulness and God's displeasure with him. The Pharisees who had this kind of thought mocked Lord Jesus because of His poverty (Luke 16:14). Many people claim that rich people are those who receive God's favor while poor people are those who receive God's disapproval. The Bible is never against the rich. The Bible only rebukes those who become greedy: those who depend on their wealth and make it the purpose of their lives. The true wealth for the believer is to have faith and love that are expressed in self-denial and the act of following Lord Jesus (1 Cor. 13:1-7; Phil. 2:3-5). They gain freedom from the affairs of the world by believing that the Lord is their Father who will not forsake them.

In other words, believers should not focus on worldly possessions that are perishing. All possession in this world will only distract us from God's will. Focusing on His will is far more important.

Reflection:

1. What is your attitude and view on ownership? How has it affected your life?

2. What is your view on being poor and being rich? Does that also concern you?

Application: 

Be careful with what you have. Don't let that distract you momentarily from God's will.