James 5:1-6

“Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you.” -James 5:1 (NIV)

Many people dream of winning the lottery. Each week they buy their ticket and hold out hope that millions will come their way. And yet, for every story we hear of those who win and use the money responsibly, there are countless more stories of those whose lives were completely ruined by the money. Reckless spending, greed and corruption, drug and alcohol abuse, divorce, and even murder too often are the results of a life destroyed by great wealth.

Living in the United States, we all have experienced our share of comfort and financial blessings. Compared with the 2 billion people around the world who live on less than two dollars a day, we are very wealthy. Yet God warns us in this passage to beware of the many trappings of great wealth. It is His desire that we be content with what we have and to trust Him to provide for our needs. He wants to bless us so we can be a blessing to others.

“For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” -1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)