The dangers of greed! (23/6/2023)
1 Timothy 6:9-10 "But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." - NLT
Greed without self control drives people to seek wealth at all costs. Paul notes that such people fall into temptation, are trapped by foolish and harmful desires which eventually lead to their ruin and destruction. Their craving for money in evil ways makes them derail from the true faith and end up with many sorrows, some with eternal consequences. It leads to wrong doctrines and all sorts of scandals.
Because of the deception of wealth, people driven by greed are not fruitful in their relationship with God. They remain carnal and infants in the faith despite the years in salvation. About those influenced by wealth, Jesus said “The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the love of wealth, so no fruit is produced.” (Matthew 13:22).
Greed destroys relationships when its victims cheat, oppress, fight, manipulate, covet and steal from others to make wealth. All they think of is how to enrich themselves, not caring how others are. They are arrogant, don’t give and never have enough. The more they get, the more they want. They become slaves of things and never live to enjoy. It’s a life of bondage to things. They live empty lives when they derive meaning and purpose to life from material things which never satisfy!
Paslm 62:10 "Don't make your living by extortion or put your hope in stealing. And if your wealth increases, don't make it the centre of your life."
Proverbs 23:4 "Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit."
Shalom children of God