Do you idolize wealth?
In order to demonstrate God as our Purpose when our resources increase beyond our commitments, we must be careful to worship not our wealth, rooting out any hint of greed. Greed is worshipping our possessions. Paul called it idolatry (Colossians 3:5). Solomon confirmed that wisdom is more valuable than any temporary resource: “Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 8:10-11).
Solomon conveyed that we were designed to worship God: “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10). Unfortunately, as our resources escalate, we risk seeking security from our wealth, rather than God. Solomon communicated: “The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it an unscalable wall” (Proverbs 18:11).
Financial resources provide no security at our judgment. The King warned: “Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death” (Proverbs 11:4). He taught that trusting in our resources for security leaves us insecure: “Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf” (Proverbs 11:28).
Jesus warned against greed: “‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist of the abundance of his possessions'” (Luke 12:15). When our resources go up, we must worship not our wealth.
Money is pride’s measurement of our giftedness. Wisdom is humility’s measurement of our godliness.
When your resources build up, discover God as your Purpose. Walk worthily of wisdom and generosity by beginning to steward, save, and be shrewd and harmless with your wealth. Above all, worship not by rooting out any hint of greed or idolizing wealth.
Episode 29: God's Ins, Outs, Ups, and Downs of Resources, Part 3 from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.
The Restoration Road with Mitch Kruse
Season 2 : Episode 3
Duration: 28:30
Originally aired January 23, 2011