THE DANGERS OF LOVING MONEY AND THE CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
Some people view money as the source of life's greatest pleasures, equating it with security, success, freedom, and power. However, the Biblical perspective emphasizes trust in Jesus rather than in fleeting worldly possessions.
THE PROBLEMS WITH LOVING MONEY:
1 Timothy 6:10 warns about the love of money being the root of all kinds of evils, emphasizing the destruction and ruin it can bring.
- Loving money leads to a life-destroying path marked by temptation and harmful desires.
- It can cause us to stray from our faith, experiencing deep sorrow as a result.
- Money can become an idol, taking God's place as the highest priority in our lives.
BIBLICAL WARNINGS AGAINST SERVING MONEY:
Jesus taught in Matthew 6:24 that it's impossible to serve both God and money, highlighting the conflict between material wealth and spiritual devotion.
- Loving money is incompatible with serving God fully.
- Money, while neutral itself, can lead to sins like greed, fear, envy, and dishonesty when idolized.
THE INSUFFICIENCY OF MONEY:
Ecclesiastes 5:10 illustrates that money can never truly satisfy the human heart's desires, a void that only Jesus can fill. The pursuit of wealth for its own sake is ultimately unfulfilling.
CHRISTIAN STRATEGY AGAINST THE TEMPTATION OF MONEY:
1 Timothy 6:11-12 offers a way out for believers, urging them to flee from the love of money and pursue virtues like righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.
Followers of Christ are encouraged to fight the good fight of faith and cling to the hope of eternal life.
CONCLUSION:
While the world offers many temptations, including the allure of wealth, believers are called to prioritize their spiritual well-being over material gains, staying true to their commitment to God and the eternal life promised through faith in Jesus Christ.
If we can help you restore your focus on Jesus in your finances, I hope you’ll contact us at faithfi.com.
ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:
- I'm interested in donor-advised funds for tax planning but concerned about supporting entities that don't align with my values. Can you provide guidance on choosing one, particularly your thoughts on the National Christian Foundation (NCF)?
- As I approach retirement, when is my Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) due and how do I find out the amount? Also, can I direct my RMD to charitable giving without facing taxes or penalties?
- We're considering moving into a retirement community in a few years. How should we manage our assets, including our home equity and IRA, to cover the entrance fee and monthly rent without incurring unnecessary taxes or penalties?
- A member of my church needs a car for transportation. I've saved $1,000 to help purchase one for her. Do you know any organizations where I can find a reliable car at a low price?
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- National Christian Foundation (NCF): For setting up a donor-advised fund aligned with Christian values.
- Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.
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