Get Rich or Die Trying

But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For 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. ~1st Timothy 6:6-12

I have to constantly check myself because of all the material things that I don't have but I really want. The only way that I know to get those things is to somehow make more money. Like most people, I have dreams of making enough money that will allow me to satisfy my material desires without a moments thought.

Some of them have to do with the basics such as shelter, food, and clothing; the problem is that my wants go way beyond what I actually need. I cannot deny that I want the trendy cell phone, designer handbag, and the fancy car. Now, don't mistake me. I am not saying that we should not want nice things and strive to better our situation so that we may get them. I am not saying that God does not want us to have nice things or because we are Christians we should live a Spartan existence. However, I feel there is a danger in how we go about acquiring them and the motivation behind it.

I have to check myself because my desire to make my situation better through getting more money causes me to loose focus on my spiritual duties. I find myself lost in this selfish place that causes me to align my life's purpose away from God's purpose for me; instead, I am focused on satisfying my own desires for self-centered reasons. Honestly, I start to think of how I can make more money to get what I want instead of how I can use my gifts to glorify God and fulfill his purpose for my life. My energies are redirected away from what I know can bring me peace and joy to activities of frustration and anger.

What's rally messed up about it is that I know God will not only provide for my basic needs but go beyond what I could ever imagine for myself. Why do we allow ourselves to get sidetracked and distracted by the ways of the world? I believe it's because it is easier. We do not always want to do what God asks of us. It is easier to ignore him. Although he rewards us for our commitment to Him, we want it on our terms and in our own time instead of relying on God, so we allow ourselves to be easily distracted.

Now, I know some people want to blame it all on the devil. Satan this and Satan that. Personally, Satan can kiss my butt because he can only do to us what we allow or what God allows. Now if we allow him to take a hold and manipulate us then we have the power to change. If God is allowing him then we will make it through the trial better off than we were before even if we can't see it.

The only way to strengthen ourselves is to constantly remain in God's word. I don't know about anyone else but reading the verses above jolted me. God's word allows us to check ourselve whether we like it or not and it is up to us to remain strengthen by constantly reading it. I know that is easier said than done, but we have to keep trying.

Prayer interpreted from Mathew 6:31-34
God give me the courage to let go of my worries for what I shall eat, drink or wear. I know these are worldly worries and you, Heavenly Father, know of all my needs. Give me the strength to seek your kingdom and your righteousness. I know that you and you alone will provide all that I need. Allow me to focus on what I can do today to praise you and contribute to your glory for tomorrow will take care of itself.

Comments

Shelley said…
You make a valid point. It is hard to stay on track. I always find it easier to just talk to God but I think it's worth reading his word too!
May 26, 2008 at 9:55 AM
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