Thursday; September 8

How do we measure success in life? While there are several standards, one of the more common ones in 21st Century America is our bank accounts. If we have enough stuff to enjoy and enough saved away for a rainy day (or retirement – whichever comes first) we tend to feel good about ourselves. Yet is this what really makes us successful?

The Bible tends to warn us about putting our hopes on a financial foundation because it can be lost much easier than it can be gained. The wise man of the Old Testament observed, “Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease you’re your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings like an eagle that flies toward the heavens.” (Proverbs 23:4-5). Sure, money can be a good tool, but that’s what it is – something to be used to accomplish more noble and stable goals. No, most of us can’t live a fulfilling life in poverty but we must be careful to put too much hope and trust in finances as a way to achieve happiness and contentment.

Let’s find a way to make a living, but be careful not to make the pursuit of material things our way of life. When we strike the balance, we will be able to enjoy life and alleviate anxiety.

Think About It!

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