Have you ever been concerned about money/finances? Have you ever been at a point in life when you didn't know how you were going to pay your next bill? Have you ever been or are you at a point in life where finances are not a concern? I've been on both ends. I bring this topic up because I was reading in 1 Timothy this morning. Paul is writing "Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils."
I found myself thinking that I don't desire to be rich so I'm ok. NOT! I felt convicted that even spending too much time focussing on money, even the basic needs and wondering where it will come from is harmful. It can take my focus off what's important. The next verse says that "many have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs." Wouldn't that make sense that the more you give money much of your attention it often becomes a distraction and begins to become more of a challenge? The definition of pang is 'a sudden feeling of mental or emotional distress or longing.' One thought can lead to the next and pretty soon it has become monumental.
Here is where our attention should be. A few verses later: "But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith." Those in battle do not shrink back. I want to fight the good fight of faith.
Due to copyright I couldn't post this clip, only the link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUFJ30_Y0EM
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