Five Invitations: Day 11

DAY 11 - Hurt or Help?
1 Timothy 6:17-19 

Does money help or hurt your relationship with God?

Money is a top stressor. 77% of Americans reported just this month that they’re anxious about their financial situation. Another recent survey said, “The average American loses over 200 hours of sleep each year thinking about the money they owe and has three ‘debt nightmares’ a week.”

In the Bible, apostles and prophets warn about the dangers of riches. "The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil," Paul tells his protege, Timothy. Jesus says, "It's hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven." Old Testament prophets criticized leaders who took advantage of people financially. Many Christians read this and assume money can only hurt our relationship with God.

What if we could have a more positive relationship with money?

What if money could help your relationship with God?

Paul’s warning in 1 Timothy 6 clearly says that money is spiritually dangerous. But he also says that God gives us material things “for our enjoyment!” We can also use money in a way that builds our “hope in God” and invests in “the coming age.” We can selfishly hoard money for ourselves, or we can generously share it with other people. Money is like fire: dangerous but helpful when used wisely.

The Bible offers wisdom about money and material things. As we’ll see this week, money can strengthen our connection with God. But we’ll have to be honest about our financial attitudes, habits, and dreams to receive that wisdom.

REFLECT:
Do you tend to believe money helps or hurts your relationship with God?

PRAY:
Lord, examine my heart and my habits. Show me how I use money and material things. Teach me to use them in a way that builds my relationship with you. Amen.