Being Rich in GodSample

Asking for trouble

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 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” (1 Timothy 6:9-10).

Wanting to get rich is asking for trouble. But is this really the case? Money actually helps solve problems. Then you can pay off those debts, put your children through college, pay the bills.

Of course, everyone needs money to live. You need to be able to meet your basic needs - Paul knows that too (1 Timothy 6:8). But those who really want to become rich for the sake of possessions themselves run a huge risk. You fall prey to temptation, to many foolish and harmful desires. You buy things you don't really need, which have the ability to draw you away from God. They give some satisfaction, but you find that the spell only lasts for a short while and then you want more.

The lure of riches endangers your soul. Paul notes that some have strayed from the faith as a result and have been pierced with grief. Jesus also warns in the parable of the sower that the lure of riches prevents the Gospel from bearing fruit.

What do possessions mean to you?