Be Not Mastered By It!

We live in a world full of discontentment whether those struggling with such have little or much. No matter how much many have, they always want more and that longing begins to take control in their life. That is why Paul warned. . .

"(9) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. (10) For THE LOVE OF MONEY IS A ROOT OF ALL KINDS OF EVILS. It is through this CRAVING that SOME HAVE WANDERED AWAY FROM THE FAITH and pierced themselves with many pangs." ( 1 Timothy 6:9-10 ESV)

It isn't just the lack of money that can hurt! Even those who stash it away often incur pains of various kinds in association with it. Still, understand it is not having money, but the loving of it that creates the problem. Some are able to handle wealth very well. There are also those who are able to do well with less. It appears the real issue may be less about quantity and more about life's attachment to it!

At one time it was noted by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, that it costs about fifteen dollars to print a thousand bills regardless of denomination. What that meant was that for a $500 bill to be printed was just as cheap as a $1 bill. Therefore, whether one covets a 1 or a 500 dollar bill, spiritually speaking the cost is always the same. Loving money can be a problem to both rich and poor.

I love how in a Proverb of Agur he stated. . .
"(7) Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die: (8) Remove far from me falsehood and lying; GIVE ME NEITHER POVERTY NOR RICHES; feed me with the food that is needful for me, (9) LEST I BE FULL AND DENY YOU and say, 'Who is the LORD?' or LEST I BE POOR AND STEAL and profane the name of my God." ( Proverbs 30:7-9 ESV)

In seeking contentment with just the food he needed, Agur understood the same principle of contentment Paul addressed in 1 Timothy 6:8 of being content with "food and clothing". Agur saw how less than that or more than that had the potential to lead in a wrong direction. His desire was to keep life in perspective by not allowing the stuff of life to become his master. May we do the same. This will lead us to continue in trusting God and honoring His Name as He remains the Master of our life.

Jesus noted we cannot serve two masters? ( Matthew 6:24) The one most loved -- God or money -- will be the one served. May we seek God's help in maintaining a proper perspective.

Have a great day LOVING THE RIGHT MASTER!
Carl

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