July 2, 2024
Read Judges 19, Isaiah 8, 1 Timothy 6
Do you remember your first job that you got a big paycheck from? Mine was working in college for a lumber yard. It was long sweaty hours but when the paychecks came around it made it worth it. I worked that job for two summers and it helped me save up for wedding expenses during the summer that Amy and I got married. For many young people that first big paycheck can be a blessing but it can also be a temptation to want more.
Paul has some wise words about not allowing money to get the best of us as Christians in 1 Timothy 6, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” vv. 6-7. The opposite of greed may be giving, but the cure for greed is contentment. Being satisfied with what we have. This is a most difficult thing, especially in our economy and culture. Americans are known for their materialism and the constant battle for comparison with the neighbors. Paul is not saying that money is bad but he does warn us of a trap where our desire for money can supersede our desire for God. “But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction” vv. 8-9.
Often the most misquoted verse in the New Testament is verse 10. People often say, “Money is the root of evil.” But a closer look shows us that’s not what Paul says. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” It is the “love of money” that gets us in trouble. Money itself is neither bad or good. It is like technology and can be used for either purpose.
What else do you see in these chapters? What words, phrases, or themes stick out to you?
Add your thoughts below.
Posted by John Weldon 
DId God Really Say... 