What would you do if you had a million dollars?
We all say something like, "If I only had a million dollars I would do..." and then we describe something that fulfills a dream, a longing, or creature comfort. But what does the Bible say you should do if you did inherit or win a million dollar? Here is a suggestion from the Bible."Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them." Psalm 62:10.
WHAT?
Do not set your heart on it. That sounds lofty and ideal but what does that mean?
To set your heart on something means:
- That thing is the object of your affection.
- You dream about it.
- You see that thing as the fulfillment of your hopes.
- That thing is essential to you.
- It begins to define you.
- Your identity and the thing you set your heart on start to become one and the same.
- It becomes your motivation and the basis of your choices.
The list above is not bad if your heart is set on something wise and healthy, like family, God, church, and community. But to set your heart on wealth for the sake of wealth or to serve only yourself is not wise. Our hearts should be set on loving God, family, and serving our community. To set our hearts on wealth puts wealth in competition with God, creates selfishness, puts at risks the best things in life and opportunities to serve and know God, ultimately you risk eternity and the blessings of heaven.
THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY
This Bible verse is not just a proverbial saying. The Holy Spirit moved the patriarch to pen these words so this is not merely some advice that you can take it or leave it.
Scripture addresses the issues of your heart in many places because God has a right to it and everything you are and have. As a loving Father, God cares for our wellbeing and knows a heart set on wealth for the sake of wealth is unsatisfactory to meet our deepest need. Even Jesus affirmed this when he said, "Where your heart is there your treasure will be also." Matthew 6:21.
DEVOTION
The scriptures do not say to refuse wealth or deny your inheritance. It does not say we should choose to become destitute. Our hearts were made for better things than gold, silver, houses, and vacations. Our hearts were made for God and will only find fulfillment in serving Him.
So, if some wealth comes your way affirm to God that He alone has your devotion and demonstrate your devotion to Him by acts of charity, tithing, and service.
(c) Adron 3/2/18
