Continuing on with I Timothy 6---
For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 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 sorrows.
Studying this morning, I came across this quote:
"Culture is invisible to those who are in the culture. The great advantage of visiting other parts of the world is the reality check it brings to us by drawing contrasts to the culture we are living in. The culture of money is very dangerous. The Bible actually warns against it. Wise men and women understand the fleeting nature of wealth. They also understand the eternal nature of God's proven provision that transcends this world. " (Rod Hembree)
Notice in the I Timothy verses that it is the "love of money" that is the demon seed that gets into our hearts and brings all manner of misery. Does that mean that we are to sell everything, move to a mountain top, wear brown robes and sandals and grow organic gardens? No..Under the leadership of God, we are to be stewards of any money that we comes to us. The trouble begins when we allow our hearts to be controlled by the love for money. The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. You know and I know that we have seen good men and women, in the ministry, fall prey to this. Letting themselves fall under the delusion that because they are "serving God", then that gives them license to take in huge amounts of money. Money/ mammon is not our master. We do not surrender our hearts to the darkness of wealth. Under the supervision of God's Holy Spirit, we are to use what money we have, little or much, for His kingdom. For His purposes. IN fact, any money you get or earn isn't truly yours..........He is letting you use it. We should be the most extravagant givers....cheerful and willing to share and give away what has been give to us. One of the most satisfying parts in my life is being able to help others. Being able to fund mission trips and projects that you know has been directed by the Holy Spirit. There is great contentment when your heart and your wallet are connected to the Kingdom of God.
Why not consider "Going green" as part of your worship.
To give cheerfully your tithes and offerings.
Even beyond that, being ready to help and give away during the week as you move about daily. That is a treasure that money can't buy.
Merry Christmas from the "B's" in Attalla
mb
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