Family Finances: Distorted Financial Attitudes
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Then he said, 'Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.'" Luke 12:15 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Materialism can cause us to lose touch with our spiritual needs. In today's scripture, Jesus warns against this kind of attitude.
A materialistic attitude can take various forms. One is "keeping up with the Joneses." Coveting what others have . . . living beyond our means . . . wanting the latest fashion, toy, car, gadget, or whatever.
Sometimes we measure ourselves—and others—by our net worth. We may gain financially at the expense of others or pursue money instead of God.
And then there are the get-rich-quick schemes. Trying to earn money quickly without much work. Investing in financial programs that lack substance and integrity. Taking shortcuts.
Greed and unrealistic expectations are at the core of all this. Never satisfied—always starved for more money or more things. Fantasizing about wealth.
Consider this …
Do any of these areas cause you concern? One of the keys to overcoming is realizing that godliness with contentment is great wealth in itself. In Paul's first letter to Timothy, he addressed this issue.
Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.
But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 NLT
We need to place our faith in God rather than money. Jesus promised to provide for us as we put his kingdom and righteousness first. Who or what is coming first in your life?
Prayer
Father, help me overcome materialism in every area of my life. Help me focus on you and what you have called me to do. Help me remember that you—not my bank account or job or possessions—are my source. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …Committed Couples: God's Plan for Marriage & the Family by Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. Whether in a private or group setting, couples will be encouraged spiritually and romantically as they research biblical principles that affirm their vows. This book can help every married couple grow spiritually and emotionally in their relationship. It is also a great help for engaged-to-be-married couples.
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©Living Free 2018. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day® devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN, www.LivingFree.org. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending an e-mail to [email protected]
