Devotions/Partners
1 Timothy 6:9-10 (KJV): “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”
COMMENTARY: One common stereotype of businesspeople (especially business owners and executives) is that they are “greedy.” Perhaps you remember the classic 1987 movie Wall Street. Actor Michael Douglas plays Gordon Gekko, who boldly declares that “greed is good.”
Wrong! In today’s Scripture passage, and others, the Word of God boldly declares that greed isn’t good. In fact, there is a downward progression that happens when people get greedy. Their idolatrous preoccupation with the acquisition and accumulation of wealth backfires. They FALL into temptations, traps, foolish and harmful desires. They WANDER from the faith. They PLUNGE into ruin and destruction. They PIERCE themselves with many griefs.
APPLICATION: You will hear a multitude of “voices” condoning greed and encouraging you to be greedy. These voices will tell you that greed is good. That greed is the best way to achieve success. That greed satisfies and leads to fulfillment. Whether you’re tempted to be greedy through your business practices or some form of illegal or legal gambling, the wisest thing to do is to run away from greed and run toward Godliness. Be a mature, Christ-exalting example for others to emulate. When you come to the end of your career or this life, you’ll be glad you did.
Joyfully yours,
For Further Exploration
For further exploration about Philippians 4: 6-8 (KJV), read Understanding Life in Christ (Galatians 1:6–4:31) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.