The curse of riches

Thought for the day

I heard about an expert in diamonds who happened to be seated on an airplane beside a woman with a huge diamond on her finger. Finally, the man introduced himself and said, "I couldn't help but notice your beautiful diamond. I am an expert in precious stones. Please tell me about that stone." She replied, "That is the famous Klopman diamond, one of the largest in the world. But there is a strange curse that comes with it." Now the man was really interested. He asked, "What is the curse?" As he waited with bated breath, she replied, "It's Mr. Klopman."

Seriously, the true curse of any kind of valuable possession is its capacity to steal our hearts and souls. As Jesus said,

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)

This passage is one of many references Jesus made to the use of money and possessions. In fact, someone has calculated that about 15 percent of everything Christ said relates to this topic -- to give you a little perspective, that's more than his teachings on heaven and hell combined.

So why did Jesus put such an emphasis on money and possessions? The reason is that there is a fundamental connection between our spiritual lives and how we think about and handle our money. We may try to separate our faith and our finances, but God sees them as inseparable.

God doesn't care so much about your money. He wants your heart. But he knows that your heart will always follow your treasures. That's the curse of all that we own.

"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Verses

2 Corinthians 5:7

For by faith we guide our steps, by no clear vision yet:

Isaiah 33:24

And the inhabitant will not say, "I am sick"; the people who dwell in it will be forgiven their iniquity.

2 Corinthians 4:17

We have small troubles for a while now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles.

1 Peter 3:7

Husbands, in the same way, show consideration for your wives in your life together, paying honor to the woman as the weaker sex, since they too are also heirs of the gracious gift of life--so that nothing may hinder your prayers.

Joshua 1:8

Let not this Book of the Teaching cease from your lips, but recite it day and night, so that you may observe faithfully all that is written in it. Only then will you prosper in your undertakings and only then will you be successful.

Prayer

Father, Your vast wisdom is given to those who seek godly wisdom and Your knowledge to the discerning believer. You are the bright light that comes bursting forth when darkness seeks to blind the godly. All foes are rendered powerless in Your presence. Thank You for the marvelous standing we have as Your children.