Materialism...

Today's Readings: OT - Ezekiel 44 / NT + Proverbs 23

"Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle." -- Proverbs 23:4-5

Unemployment, foreclosures and shrinking investments are all part of changing times. Many who were well set in their job, home and retirement are now living from hand to mouth while some are among the homeless. They worked hard and wore themselves out to get rich. Yet, in a moment; in a twinkling of the eye; their wealth sprouted wings and flew off like an eagle. They chose the wrong god to serve.

Solomon doesn't mention the Lord in this word of counsel, but he implores the reader to have wisdom and show restraint. But where does such wisdom come from? When someone wears themselves out to get rich they have chosen a master to serve. And Jesus said in Matthew 6:24, "No one can serve two masters...You cannot serve both God and Money". Wisdom to show restraint can only be found in serving the Lord. It's a matter of choosing the right God to serve.

The disease is epidemic and you have been exposed to it at every corner of life. The condition is known as materialism and it can drive the average person insane. But, as a believer, you have the vaccine which protects you from this devastating condition. Your protection is found in your choice of the right God to serve. Serve him with all your heart and "... all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Ezekiel 45 / NT + 2 Corinthians 8