Money Matters

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” Hebrews 13:5

Like a skilled fighter, the writer of Hebrews follows his left jab on morality with a right hook about money. Ouch. But, since our felt-worth is far too often wrapped up in our net-worth, such punches are justified. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have”(Hebrews 13:5). The issue is not the amount in your account, but your attitude—how you feel about what you have. Both the righteous rich and the pious poor struggle with the subject of cash and income.

Knowing the hold money can have on our hearts, Jesus spoke early and often on the topic. “Both God and gold can’t be your top priority”(Matt. 6:24). “Guard against all kinds of greed. Your life is more than what you make”(Luke 12:15). “Set your focus—and your funds—in heaven. Your heart is in the place you place your treasure”(Luke 12:33-34).

“Keep your lives free from the love of money.” Before you dismiss (or deny) that such could possibly be a problem in your own life, ponder these questions. Do you think more about money or about Jesus? Do you spend more time figuring out what you can get(toys, trips, outfits, etc.) or what you can give? Does money more easily pass through your hands or find a place in your heart? Will you do anything for gain or everything for God’s glory? Is the bottom line your profit or God’s presence? “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’”(Heb. 13:5).

The best antidote for materialism is contentment. Contentment is not having what you want; it’s wanting what you have. And what you have is a God who never goes away and who always helps you out(Heb. 13:5-6). We should never fret about not having enough, or feel like we need to have more, for we are filled and overflowing with the riches of God’s kindness(Rom. 2:4), the riches of His glory(Rom. 9:23), the riches of His wisdom and knowledge(Rom. 11:3), the riches of His grace(Eph. 1:7), the riches of His glorious inheritance(Eph. 1:18), and the riches of His mercy(Eph. 2:4). Today’s temporary currency can’t begin to compare to the wealth of eternity, so whatever bank balance God brings your way, share generously, enjoy graciously, and hold on loosely.

Money matters.
Let it be something you live with—not something you live for.