The Dangers of Greed

 

Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:13-21 ESV).

 

Greed is an intense, selfish, and unending desire for more wealth, possessions, or other forms of gain, often beyond one's needs or what is fair. It can manifest as excessive covetousness, a lack of self-control, or a rapacious yearning for material or social advantages, and is Scripturally listed as one of the seven deadly sins. Jesus warns us to watch out for all kinds of greed. Many believe the kind of greed most often seen has to do with very wealthy people wanting more. But Jesus doesn’t focus on that kind of greed in our reading today.

 

In the context of this passage, a man is arguing with his brother over their inheritance. The family has enough to hand down, but Jesus sees that this man is still worried if he will truly have enough. He is greedy not for luxury but for security. Many people don’t even know that kind of greed exists. But many of us have it. We want a little bit more so that we don’t have to worry.

 

Jesus points us away from greed based on worry. So long as we aim to live God’s way, aligning ourselves with God’s purpose for us in this world (seeking his kingdom), and so long as it is not yet time for our heavenly inheritance, God will give us what we need to live for him each day. Wanting more than that is a type of greed. And that will distract us from fully living the life of joy and peace we are created for. So, let’s repent and learn to let go of our worry-based greed.

 

The Benefit of Humility

 

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold. The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the Maker of them all. The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it. The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life. (Proverbs 22:1-4 ESV).

 

Yesterday we explored the destructive nature of pride; today, I want to look at the benefit of humility. The rewards promised in our reading are detailed clearly. Avoiding pride is not enough. We need to lean away from it in favor of humility. C.S. Lewis put it aptly: “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.”

 

Look at the second verse of our reading again. God makes both the rich and the poor. In this context, “rich” does not refer to having an extravagant life. Having riches, or wealth, means that when we are doing God’s work—that is, living God’s way—we can count on receiving everything we truly need to keep going.

 

And wealth isn’t the most important reward. Honor, a good name, is more desirable than great riches (v. 1). By humbly following God, we gain the respect of other good people, and we probably gain some respect from some not-so-great people also.

 

The most reliable reward of humbly following God is life itself. When we are humble enough to rely on God’s direction, it is amazing how many pitfalls we avoid. We avoid the problems that pride falsely convinces us that we can handle them ourselves.

 

When we are humble, we are amazed how often God helps us steer clear of trouble that we didn’t even see coming. When we are humble and we see or hear of someone’s folly leading to ruin, we learn to say, “There, but for the grace of God, go I.” That’s because the unwise keep going right into trouble; they don’t have God to guide them (v. 3).

 

The Prequel to a Fall

 

The highway of the upright turns aside from evil; whoever guards his way preserves his life. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud. Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. (Proverbs 16:17-20 ESV).

 

As we continue in this month’s theme of discovering a life of peace through virtue, today we look at the destructive nature of pride. Pride comes in two forms. The same two kinds of pride show up in many cultures. Both kinds have to do with being majestic or exalted in some way. One kind of pride is good. This is the pride that results from the moment when parents view the development of their children as remarkable. But the other kind of pride is very destructive. Throughout Proverbs we read about the good development that can happen when someone pursues wisdom. True wisdom is gained through God. And even though a wise person can go through many ups and downs in life, the wisdom they’ve gained will help to hold their life together.

 

However, we must beware of trying to keep it all together on our own. This is the result of the kind of pride that makes you think that anything you built on your own is worth more. Or that because you built it by yourself you won’t need anyone’s help to hold it together. Or, most dangerous of all, that because you have been self-sufficient, you are a greater person than people who have relied on others.

 

That kind of pride leads to destruction. Our reading today is saying that if you have built something without God, then it isn’t built very well. It’s not built to last. Sooner or later, the so-called majestic life you built without God will simply fall apart. This is how Jesus taught this principle:

 

[Jesus said] “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like aa wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” (Matthew 7:24-27 ESV).

What are you building your life on… only Jesus will insure a life that can withstand the ravages of the storms of life!

 

Contentment

 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:8-13 ESV).

 

Since Mary and I were married I have held many “jobs.” To be clear, there was never a doubt about the calling of God to be a vocational minister; however, as I finished my formal education I needed to “bring home the bacon.” I’ve done janitorial work, odd jobs like painting store windows with seasonal messages, assembly line work in a window and door factory, design drafting, painting and small construction, and a stint at Home Depot in the flooring department. I’ve been a consultant, salesman, and manager in secular positions. And, of course, I’ve been a college student minister, associate pastor, pastor, life coach and counselor. Some paid well, others only provided a meager compensation. However, in every circumstance God more than supplied our needs. In all our journey we have been content. Contentment should never be about how much stuff we possess!

 

Contentment was a powerful word to the Greek-speaking people of the Apostle Paul’s day. To be content literally means “to find everything you need within yourself.” Many teachers in that day believed that contentment was the greatest virtue. But their version of contentment was based on self-accomplishment. To become content, they taught, a person had to be able to provide completely for himself or herself.

 

Paul knew that it was a myth to think that a human being can be completely self-sustaining. And yet here he looks within himself and finds that everything he needs is there within him. God put it there. The Holy Spirit had begun living inside of Paul. This contentment provided by the Spirit of God gave Paul tremendous freedom. He goes on to say that sometimes his physical needs have been met, and sometimes they have not been met. But even when he has not had enough food, clothing, money, or other basic needs, he has still found that God’s peace and strength have been present within him. There is the secret to contentment… resting in the knowledge that God will never leave us alone to face difficulty!

 

This month we’ll explore more of the details in this kind of life. My prayer and hope for you is that you will find as much joy and peace as I have even when life doesn’t seem to make sense!

 

Rrest From Your Labor

 

So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. (Hebrews 4:9-14 ESV).

 

Happy Labor Day! AI says that Labor Day is “a federal holiday on the first Monday of September that celebrates the social and economic achievements of American workers and the labor movement. It originated in the late 19th century, a time of widespread strikes and protests for shorter workdays, better conditions, and fair wages. The holiday became official in 1894 to recognize the contributions of workers to the nation's strength and prosperity.” Well, for many people it will be just another day. It certainly won’t be a day of rest. Even if you are one of the folks that have the day off from your employment, my guess is that you will be spending it in some kind of “labor.” You may be planning to use the time for completing some put-off tasks around the house; or, perhaps you’re hosting a group of friends for a gathering. Regardless of your plans, I doubt you will be “resting from your labor”!

 

Though I’m writing this devotional on Friday before Labor Day, I can already anticipate that I will be doing much less than I would normally. I have been remanded to inactivity by the doctor and Mary is on full alert to keep me as inactive as possible. Perhaps it will be a good time to do some reading and contemplate where my concentration will lead us in the fall through Morning Devotionals (she seems to think that’s OK… LOL!).

 

In that spirit, let me draw your attention to our reading today. The writer of Hebrews indicates there is a time of “rest” for believers: So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his (v. 9). I certainly believe that will be a part of our eternal gift; however, I find it difficult to imagine what that will look like. One of the clues is found in Jesus’ invitation in the Gospel of Matthew:

 

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and m  I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV).

 

Jesus is not talking about a cessation of activity, but a directed path serving the continued purpose we are created to achieve. When we try to achieve that purpose alone it becomes a burden too heavy to bear; however when we join with Jesus in that pursuit, it becomes an easy path forward.

 

Whatever, you “do” today, do it with Him! Then, you will truly rest from your labor!

 

The Faithful Father

 

Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me! You have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Hide not your face from me. Turn not your servant away in anger, O you who have been my help. Cast me not off; forsake me not, O God of my salvation! For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me in. Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies. Give me not up to the will of my adversaries; for false witnesses have risen against me, and they breathe out violence. I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! (Psalm 27:7-14 ESV).

 

The phrase "God is a faithful father" reflects a core tenet of our belief as Christians. The Scripture describes God as a loving, trustworthy, and dependable parent who is consistent in His character and promises. This concept highlights God's unwavering support, kindness, and justice, offering believers a secure foundation and hope. Just as many earthly fathers provide, God is seen as guiding, caring for, and fulfilling His word for His children, making Him a source of profound solace and strength.

 

I am aware that, unfortunately, not everyone has had a positive experience with their father. Some have experienced abandonment from fathers who have walked out on their families, offering only neglect instead of care. Some children have never met their fathers. Or, worse, some wish they had never met them. Sadly, our world is plagued with poor examples of fathers, men who abandon, neglect, or abuse their families. If this is your experience, it may make it difficult to accept God as a faithful Father.

 

But God’s faithfulness far exceeds that of even the best parents. Even if our father and mother forsake us, the Lord will not. Our Father God is the perfect Father. He fills a painful vacuum of love for all whose earthly fathers have forsaken them. God’s intention in calling himself Father is to reveal his heart’s desire to have a real relationship with you, his child. He loves you in a way that no human has ever loved you, with ferocity and faithfulness that no human love can match.

 

It also gives all of us who have children an incredible example of how we should relate to them. I cannot imagine a greater gift than family. It is my personal treasure and while I have not been as perfect as I would have wanted to be, that doesn’t change the truth of my desire to be. It also doesn’t change the perfection I have experienced from my heavenly Father! As the psalmist writes… I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! (v. 14).

 

In His Hands

 

[The Lord says] “Behold, all who are incensed against you shall be put to shame and confounded; those who strive against you shall be as nothing and shall perish. You shall seek those who contend with you, but you shall not find them; those who war against you shall be as nothing at all. For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” (Isaiah 41:11-13 ESV).

 

I am always a bit surprised when we find ourselves anxious about the future. Our reading today is so clear in the declaration that we have nothing to fear because God holds us in His hand. Perhaps it is a result of the ever-present rebellion that we have toward anyone “holding” us. Our sin nature certainly rises up with an independent spirit when we perceive that we need anyone or anything to help us until we have reached a point where there are no other options. I know in my life that I have found it much easier to be at peace when I recognize I never need to do anything alone simply because my heavenly Father is holding my hand all the way.

 

Some of my favorite memories are from those times when I was walking with my boys holding their hand strolling along. I recall one experience long ago when Kyle was a young child walking with him in the mall while Mary went ahead to shop a bit. David and Aaron had not been born yet, so it was just the three of us. We were walking along and a lady walking behind us said, “I bet you wished you had a nickel for every question he asks you.” Well, it is true that he has always been a very curious person, seeking answers to any question that might pop into his mind, but this was a bit of a surprise that someone else would notice it! I turned and just smiled. Today I recall those times with all my children and grandchildren with great fondness. They represent my opportunity to protect and satisfy their needs. Isn’t that what a father/grandfather should do?

 

In the Bible God reveals himself as our Father. I am a child of God. Every believer is His child. God wants us to know him more personally, more intimately. The Bible is God’s long love letter that shares his heart for his children. Salvation in the Bible is so much more than just escaping the punishment for our sin. Salvation is adoption into a family, a homecoming to an extravagant celebration, an inheritance of all the riches of the Father’s lavish love. Rest easy as you face the future… you are in His hands!