Tuesday; December 17

          Have you ever wondered why greed and materialism are as common in our society as they are?  Most of us recognize one of the factors that leads us to want more money – because having more stuff is fun.  The more we have, the more we can do.  Yet, there may be another element of greediness.  You see, the more we have, the more self-reliant we believe we are.  When we don’t have to worry about “stuff”, we can feel confident that we can take care of whatever arises.  The more financially secure we are, the less of a risk of having our lives spin out of control.
          While there might be some fiscal wisdom in this, materialism is often condemned in the Bible.  One probable reason that the love of money is denounced is that it tends to distract us from spiritual things; however, there very well might be another reason.  The New Testament warns us, “ Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you,’   so that we confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.  What will men do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:5-6).  In essence, when we rely on our own bank accounts we tend to lessen our reliance on God.  When we feel secure in what we have, we no longer feel the need to depend on God.  In essence, financial security becomes an idol that supplants our love and need for God.
          Having stuff is not – in and of itself – a problem.  But, when it takes us away from seeking the presence and protection of God it can lead us into 21st Century idolatry.  Let’s be willing to utilize the money God has given us, but worship the Lord for the God He is.
          Think About It!

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