MONEY TALK

MONEY TALK

READ:
1 Timothy 6:6-12

Command those who are rich
in this present age not to be
haughty, nor to trust in uncertain
riches but in the living God.
-1 Timothy 6:17

Marilyn and Steven had been married just a few years, and money was tight.  But as she looked at their threadbare bedspread, she wanted to replace it.  So she decided she would buy a new one with a credit card-hoping to somehow find the money to pay it off.

Her devotional reading for the day surprised her when it pointed her to Proverbs 22:27, "If you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you" (NIV).  Marilyn decided not to go into debt for a new bedspread that day.

Decisions about the way we spend our money are a personal matter between us and the Lord and can be difficult to make.  But God hasn't left us without help.  He tells us:  "Honor the LORD with your possessions" (Proverbs 3:9), and "You cannot serve both God and Money" (Matthew 6:24 NIV).

With such truths in mind, we look further in His Word for help to use money wisely.  We find this:  "Beware of covetousness" (Luke 12:15).  Another says, "The borrower is servant to the lender" (Proverbs 22:7).  And in 1 Timothy we read, be "ready to give, willing to share" (6:18).

Money is a big issue.  God, who provides for all our needs, can show us how to use it to bring Him honor. - Dave Branon

Lord, sometimes money and finances are
overwhelming.  It's hard to know what decisions
to make, so please lead me and give the wisdom
to use my finances in a way that pleases You.
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Never let gold become your god.

INSIGHT
Whether wealthy or poor, the believer must deal with money issues.  Financial realities are inescapable.  Today's passage provides a blueprint for responding to money properly.  First, we are to be content with the finances God has provided and pursue godliness (v.6).  Second the loss of any accumulated wealth at death should remind us that money must not become an idol (v.7).  Third, basic provision for food and clothing should be accepted with thanksgiving (v.8).  Fourth, those who give themselves over completely to monetary gain will experience spiritual destruction (v.9).  Finally, an unbridled love for money can cause some to stray from the Christian walk and experience problems (v. 10). Contentment should guide our spiritual choices in life.

Have a blessed day and week ahead.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace