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Wealth

The pursuit of possessions and wealth and a preoccupation with physical things is futile and dissatisfying. Materialism is defined as “the preoccupation with material things rather than intellectual or spiritual things.”

If a disciple of Jesus is preoccupied with material things, it is definitely wrong. That is not to say I cannot have material things, but the obsession with acquiring and caring for “stuff” is a dangerous thing for me as a slave of Jesus.

Better to be poor and honest than a rich person no one can trust.  | Proverbs 19:1

Jesus, as always, asks a very penetrating question. The “rich young ruler” had just turned and left. He was very sad. Jesus had challenged him to sell everything and give it to the poor.

Jesus turns to his disciples.

Jesus asks the question. I imagine He lets the question linger.

Will anyone answer? Silence. No one can or no one will. The disciples have heard Jesus ask lots of questions. They are never easy.

Jesus asked  “Do you have any idea how difficult it is for the rich to enter God’s kingdom?” 

So … since no one answers, Jesus does. It is difficult for the rich to enter God’s kingdom He says. Not impossible but very, very difficult.

Do I get it? Jesus says “Happy are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” (Luke 6:20)

Jesus has a lot to say about poverty and wealth. The first priority is serving out King Jesus, ruler of God’s country.

Money is not the priority. It can get in the way. Jesus knows this and challenges me.

Do I get it?