“God in Three Versions, Eclectic Trinity” (Part 2: Money)

The group Calloway captured the desire of millions with their hit song “I Wanna Be Rich” [© 1989 Calloway Epic/Solar Songs, Inc., Calloco Music & Jig-A-Watt Jams].

“I want money lots and lots of money; I want the pie in the sky.
I want money lots and lots of money; So don’t be asking me why.”

Many people spend their lives pursuing the almighty dollar – and some have succeeded. The real question is, “At what price?” Being consumed with the desire for money has consequences. Often it results in sacrificing families at the altar of greed. In fact, the drive for wealth can even lead to physical illness.

People that put money first eventually find out that the old adage is true. “Money can’t buy you happiness.” And money can’t buy peace of mind either. In fact, the more money you have the more anxiety it creates. Can I afford that new boat? Will my possessions be stolen? What if I lose my job? Can I really afford those payments?

A friend and I were discussing a sports star that had signed a contract worth $100 million dollars. I shook my head and asked, “How much is enough?” My friend smiled and replied, “Just a little bit more.” The author of Ecclesiastes wisely states, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”

Now let me clarify. There’s nothing wrong with having money. In fact, I’ve been wealthy and I’ve been poor. I can tell you from experience that it’s far better to have money than to not have it. It’s not money that’s the problem. It’s the “love of money” that’s wrong. Paul writes, “Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people 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” (In 1 Timothy 6:-910 NLT).

In contrast, I know many wealthy believers that view money quite differently. Yes, they often have a beautiful home and many possessions, but they view their wealth as a gift from God. They understand that whatever money they have is not theirs. They are merely stewards of all that God has given them.

Wise believers use their wealth to serve others. Money is viewed as a resource to further their own unique, God-given calling. They support God-honoring ministries and fund special needs in their local church. I admire those wealthy Christians that use their possessions as a tool for evangelism and fellowship. Most of these people don’t want public recognition. Instead, they seek to store up treasures in heaven.

In 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Paul sums up the biblical view of using wealth wisely. “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”

Whatever your financial status, avoid worshiping money as a “God in three versions; eclectic Trinity.” Steward your money well and use it for God’s glory.

© 2011 Designed to Serve®