"...but godliness with contentment is great gain..."
"...if we have food and clothing we will be content with that..."
"...the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil..."
The meaning of these words from 1 Timothy 6 is clear and echoes the words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 6:24, "you cannot serve God and money." The Lord is calling us to be devoted to him rather than to the things of this world. Could it be that we have not taken these words to heart?
We live in a country that is slipping further and further away from God. The fault lies at the door of the church. Is it because we have compromised here, at the point of where our devotion lies? How many of us can say that we are content if we just have food and clothing?
As I prepare for Sunday's message, it strikes me that some radical surgery may need to be done in our lives if we are to apply these words to our lives. Is it enough to say "I love God" if our lives show that we are governed by the bottom line? What are the implications for the business owner, the union worker or the retiree?
I believe that we really need to allow the Lord to work in our hearts on this one. Are we really willing to serve him if it costs us in our standard of living? Are we willing to give it all away? Are we willing to become living sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2)?
Am I? Are you?
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2 comments:
Thanks for sharing the Biblical challenge of finances! It good to be reminded multiple times, if nec. to keep focus! God continually wants our worship, and this is one more area that can distract us from what He wants. We appreciate you being candid!
I second the Gingerich comment.
This sermon reminded me of a time i came across a stranded pickup loaded with firewood and a flat tire. The passenger in my truck was of a different constitution, as he stated immediately, this looks like a quick $20.00!
We helped the guy jack his truck and upon completion i was asked, What do i owe you?
Nothing was my reply, just do the same for someone else.
My passenger was upset and said that was ridiculous after we left, i told him that i feel great!
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