The Abundant Life: Riches money can’t buy…
The abundant life has a healthy view of money.
Those who don’t have money, want it. Some in their quest to get money, become involved in get-rich-quick schemes. Many who have money, want more of it. No matter how much they have, it is never enough. They become workaholics. What they don’t realize is that those who measure their self-worth by their bank account are not rich, no matter how much money they have. Jesus clearly says that one’s life is not measured by how many things he owns. (Luke 12:15)
Money is merely a resource. It can help us live a more comfortable life. It can buy us a house, a car, an entertainment center, designer jeans, a yacht, plus bigger and better toys. But if we learned anything from the Beatles—money can’t buy you love. It can’t buy you peace of mind, lasting relationships, moral fiber, good health, or even time. It doesn’t give you wisdom. (Proverbs 8:10-11)
Those who make money their God don’t realize that every blessing they have comes from the one true God. The Bible clearly tells us the unhealthy love of money is the root of all evil. (1 Timothy 6:10) No wonder the Bible cautions those with lots of money to not be proud or trust in uncertain riches, but trust in the living God. (1 Timothy 6:17) No wonder they are told to be willing to give and share and do good with what God has given them. (1 Timothy 6:18) Because although they work hard, it is God who gives the increase. (1 Corinthians 3:6) Even the ability to work comes from God. (Deuteronomy 8:18)
Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters…” (Matthew 6:24) We cannot serve God and money. It’s true that money can sustain us, but money is mostly a resource God intends us to use for the good of others. If we make money our master, it will control and consume our lives. Much better to make money our servant and use it the way God intended. Then we can live a comfortable life, plus bring a little joy to others. Those intent on just building bigger and better barns to hold their bounty for the future, might find out they’ve missed the blessings of today. For no one is even guaranteed another day of life. (Luke 12:16-21)
Those living the abundant life know how to manage money and not let money manage them.
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“…I have come that they may have life and that they
may have it more abundantly.” ~John 10:10 (KJV)
