There is no question that America is a rich society. Our country is home to over 400 billionaires and over 7 million millionaires. People are working harder than ever to attain riches, and they are often finding themselves successful in doing so. It is amazing to see some of the cars and houses people are able to buy. Some possess riches that go far beyond what many of us could possibly imagine, able to buy what every their hearts desire. However, Matthew said that many of these people profit nothing. He asked “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26).
Sadly the answer to this second question is often money. While there is nothing inherently wrong with money, many would be willing to do what ever necessary to acquire it. This is why some steal, sell drugs, cheat on taxes, money launder, sell pornography, and commit a number of other sins. They love money and will be willing to do whatever necessary to make it rich. Unfortunately, this problem does not only exist in the lost world around us, but it also exists in the Lord’s church.
Paul wrote, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (I Timothy 6:10). It is sad that so many are willing to forfeit their souls to acquire money. One day they will have to face eternal punishment and they will not have their money to comfort them.
–Garrett Bookout @ www.forthright.net
