How can we apply Ezekiel 28:5 to our financial decisions today? Setting the Scene • Ezekiel 28:5: “By your great skill in trading you have increased your wealth, but your heart has grown proud because of your wealth.” • Spoken to the ruler of Tyre—an economic powerhouse—whose prosperity bred self-exaltation instead of gratitude. • The verse warns that unchecked success can lead to a proud, God-forgetting heart. Recognize God as the True Source • Deuteronomy 8:17-18 reminds us wealth is from the Lord, not human brilliance. • Practical takeaway: – Begin every financial plan with thanksgiving. – Regularly acknowledge in prayer and conversation that ability, opportunity, and results all trace back to God. Guard Against the Pride Trap • Wealth clouded Tyre’s heart; the same danger looms today. • Signs pride is creeping in: – Measuring worth by net worth. – Thinking, “I earned this; I can do as I please.” – Resisting accountability or counsel. • Countermeasures: – Luke 12:15: “Guard yourselves against every form of greed.” – Invite trusted believers to speak into spending, saving, and giving habits. Honor the Lord First • Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits…” • Action points: – Tithe or designate first-portion giving before paying any bills. – Set up automatic transfers to missions, church, or charities to keep God first—not leftovers. Pursue Humble Stewardship, Not Self-Indulgence • 1 Timothy 6:10 warns that the love of money breeds all kinds of evil. • Practical habits: – Budget with eternity in view—ask, “Will this purchase advance God’s kingdom or only inflate my ego?” – Cap lifestyle creep; when income rises, let generosity rise faster. – Keep long-term savings goals, but resist hoarding (Luke 12:16-21). Practice Wise, Honest Work Without Self-Reliance • Skill in trading isn’t condemned; pride is. • Applied today: – Strive for excellence, negotiate fairly, avoid dishonest gain (Proverbs 11:1). – Seek counsel before major investments (Proverbs 15:22). – Hold plans loosely; James 4:13-15 reminds that tomorrow is in God’s hands. Cultivate Generosity as Antidote to Pride • 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: cheerful giving opens the heart and loosens money’s grip. • Ideas: – Set a percentage beyond the tithe for spontaneous giving. – Involve the family so children learn stewardship early. Remember the Eternal Ledger • Matthew 6:19-21: store treasures in heaven. • Filter purchases through three questions: 1. Does this glorify God? 2. Does it love my neighbor? 3. Does it hinder or help eternal fruit? Key Takeaways • Wealth is a gift to steward, not a trophy to flaunt. • Pride is the hidden surcharge on every unchecked profit. • Humble, God-honoring stewardship turns financial decisions into acts of worship. |
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