The Danger of Money by Charles Stanley

READ | 1 Timothy 6:6-19

Money is a neutral commodity, in that inherently, it is neither good nor evil. However, a strong yearning for wealth can be the cause of great danger for our souls. The Lord created mankind to love Him, but ever since the fall, people have given their hearts to lesser desires. The love of money not only robs God of His rightful place in our affections, but also steals contentment, opens the door to a variety of temptations, and can cause us to wander away from our Creator.

The amount of money we possess is not the source of the problem. The root originates in the desires of the heart. We never seem to think we have enough, no matter what our financial situation is. The lure of wealth promises pleasures and security, but if we devote ourselves to the pursuit of affluence, we will find that it does not satisfy and ultimately leads to ruin and grief.

Mark 4:19 speaks of the deceitfulness of riches. Think back to a time when you purchased something you really wanted. Remember the delight you had in that item when it was new. Do you still feel the same joy, or has the pleasure decreased? The satisfaction of possession is fleeting and, therefore, requires the pursuit of more in an effort to regain the same feeling of gratification.

Lasting pleasure and security are found only in God. He richly supplies us with all things to enjoy (1 Tim. 6:17), but if we let His blessings become our primary desire, we will lose our contentment. Seek the Lord in His Word and prayer; as you learn to delight in Him, you will discover true and enduring satisfaction for your soul.