Don't Be Led Astray

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 6:10 (NIV)

Contrary to what many believe, leading them away from the faith, the Bible does not forbid desiring wealth or possessing material possessions. Nor does it say that we shouldn't have great ambitions. On the contrary, it contains numerous examples of men of faith whom God Himself chose to enrich, notably Solomon, to whom God granted riches far beyond anything he could have hoped for. When we go astray, money is absolutely not the cause. It is our attitude toward money that is at the root of the problem.

Paul doesn't tell Timothy that money is the root of all evil. Rather, he tells him that the love of money is the root of our problems. By always wanting more, we become selfish and arrogant. We think we are superior to those who don't have as much as we do. We place ourselves on a pedestal, convinced that no one can equal us. This is where many Christians fail. They believe that their money can give them everything they desire, even their salvation. That is why, instead of humbly seeking God's face, some make numerous donations, hoping to secure a place in heaven.

As long as you work hard, you can hope to one day possess more than you ever imagined. But don't let your economic success become the source of your spiritual failure. You must consider what you have managed to accumulate as a blessing and a favor from God, rewarding your efforts and your obedience to His word. Do not be led astray by your possessions or the amount in your bank account, for you risk being tormented in this life and losing the eternal life that God has offered you in Jesus Christ.

May the grace and peace of God be with you all.