GIMME MORE!

Then He (Jesus) said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15, NIV)

Some people love to shop. They have a perpetual desire to buy, buy, buy. The craze to find the latest and best deal is worldwide. There are huge shopping centers in China, Saudi Arabia, Canada, the Philippines, the United States, and all around the world. A rise in store purchases and online buying show that shopping is a global phenomenon.

Shopping can be fun, and even relaxing, to some people. There’s nothing wrong with trying to find a good deal and to enjoy the things God has given us. But when we become preoccupied with obtaining material goods, we lose focus.

Jesus challenged His listeners with these words: “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15, NIV) He went on to tell a parable about a man “who stores things up for himself,” (Luke 12:21, NIV) but is not concerned about his relationship with God.

How can we learn to be content with what we have and not be consumed with amassing more? Here are some ways:

• View material goods as given by God to be used wisely. (Matthew 15:14-30)
• Work hard to earn and save your money. (Proverbs 6:6-11)
• Give to the Lord’s work and to those in need. (2 Corinthians 9:7; Proverbs 19:17)
• Always remember to be thankful and enjoy what God gives. (1 Timothy 6:10)

Lord, our hearts often run after “stuff.” Teach us not to be obsessed with collecting more and more material goods. May we instead learn what it means to be “rich” toward You. Amen.

To be rich in God is far better than to be rich in “things!”

Enjoy your day, “Working for Christ!”