“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Heb 13:5
You only truly appreciate the advantages of contentment when you witness how money can become a tyrant. As they say, wealth is a good servant or tool to have but a bad master to serve. While wealth itself is not inherently evil, the obsession with it can lead to detrimental consequences for individuals and their communities, hindering personal growth, relationships, and spiritual well-being.
Hebrews advises keeping lives free from the love of money and avoiding a harmful obsession with wealth. An excessive and unhealthy preoccupation with acquiring and accumulating money or material possessions occurs when wealth becomes the primary focus of life. This often leads to neglecting important relationships, personal values, and spiritual growth.
The Bible states, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.” – Eccl 5:10
When one never feels content or fulfilled due to the desire for more money or when possessions are insatiable, this perpetual pursuit can lead to stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction. The pursuit of wealth may lead to compromising ethical principles, integrity, or even committing illegal acts, viewing these as necessary steps to achieve financial success.
Remember, Judas Iscariot held the position of treasurer among the twelve disciples, responsible for managing the group’s finances (John 12:6). However, despite this role, he agreed to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver, which clearly indicates a love of money (Matt 26:14-16).
Obsession with wealth often involves constant comparison with others and a sense of competition to outdo peers in terms of financial status or possessions, which can lead to envy and resentment. This obsession also results in neglecting spiritual and emotional well-being, resulting in a lack of inner peace, fulfilment, and a sense of purpose beyond material gain.
Remember, true contentment isn’t found in the abundance of possessions but in a life anchored in faith and gratitude.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk