If you missed the first half of my discussion on idols, click here.
One of the most popular, misquoted, and misunderstood verse about money in the bible comes from 1 Timothy 6:9-10: “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. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” Being rich doesn’t mean we have millions, multiple homes, and luxury SUVs, etc. In fact, if you are reading this, then you are likely considered to be rich in relation to the world population. Very few of us worry about where our next meal is coming from or where we will take shelter for the night. For us who have more than what we need, we are warned that this will lead to many temptations and can lead to our demise. It is not a sin to be successful, have wealth, and many of the things mentioned. But to make these things your focus in life and to allow them to guide your decision making process, be warned.
Note that the verse doesn’t say that money is the root of all evil, rather it is the love of money that is the root of all evil. Money itself is neither good nor bad. Our intentions, our motives, our thoughts and desires, our focus and purpose in life, can all be skewed when we choose to love money more than God. Proverbs 23:4 tells us not to toil (overwork) to acquire wealth, but rather our work should be focused on bringing glory to God.
A final thought on idolatry comes from what Jesus says in Luke 14:33: “So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.” Jesus makes it very clear that our hearts and minds must be placed on Him. If they aren’t, then we are useless to Him.
As always, I’d love to hear from you! Email me at Christopher.Hull@CeteraInvestors.com or call me at 716-707-1818.
Up Next in the series: Giving
The views stated in this letter are not necessarily the opinion of Cetera Investors and should not be construed directly or indirectly as an offer to buy or sell any securities mentioned herein. Due to volatility within the markets mentioned, opinions are subject to change without notice. Information is based on sources believed to be reliable; however, their accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Past performance does not guarantee future results.