How can we guard against valuing wealth over God, as seen in Job 31:25?

◄ How to prioritize God over wealth? ►

Verse in Focus

“if I have rejoiced in my great wealth because my hand had gained so much,” (Job 31:25)

The Subtle Idol of Wealth

• Money promises security, status, and comfort, yet only God truly supplies these needs (Psalm 62:10; Proverbs 18:11).

• Riches are temporary—“wealth sprouts wings and flies away” (Proverbs 23:5).

• Jesus warns that wealth can choke the word, making it “unfruitful” (Matthew 13:22).

Warning Lights on the Dashboard

• Growing excitement over a paycheck but indifference toward worship.

• Reluctance to give generously even when able (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).

• Anxiety when investments dip but calm when spiritual life wanes (Matthew 6:24-25).

• Measuring success mainly by bank statements rather than by obedience and love (Luke 12:15).

Job’s Model of Integrity

• Job enjoyed vast wealth (Job 1:3) yet refused to anchor his joy or identity in it.

• He proactively renounced any secret delight in riches (Job 31:24-28), treating greed as idolatry worthy of judgment.

• His heart remained soft toward God whether in abundance or loss (Job 1:21).

Guardrails That Keep God First

1. Recognize Ownership

– “The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1).

– View yourself as a steward, not an owner.

2. Practice Regular, Sacrificial Giving

– Firstfruits giving (Proverbs 3:9-10) loosens greed’s grip.

– Set automatic generosity—tithe, support missions, help the poor (1 Timothy 6:18).

3. Cultivate Contentment

– “Be content with what you have, for He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you’” (Hebrews 13:5).

– Keep gratitude lists; thank God daily for basics like salvation, family, and food.

4. Set Eternal Goals

– “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-21).

– Invest time and resources in people and gospel work; returns are guaranteed (Philippians 4:17).

5. Schedule Regular Heart-Checks

– Fast from unnecessary spending; note what surfaces in your heart.

– Invite trusted believers to ask how you handle money (Proverbs 27:17).

6. Keep Sabbath Rhythms

– Rest shifts focus from production to dependence (Exodus 20:8-11).

– It reminds you that God, not labor, sustains you.

7. Memorize Key Scriptures on Wealth

– Reciting truth counters the lies of materialism.

Promises to Those Who Value God Above Riches

• Freedom from piercing sorrows that accompany greed (1 Timothy 6:10).

• Deep satisfaction and peace this world cannot give (Isaiah 26:3).

• Eternal reward “that will never perish, spoil, or fade” (1 Peter 1:4).

• Ability to enjoy blessings without bondage—“God… richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17).

Holding wealth with open hands keeps our hearts free, our witness clear, and our joy anchored in the One who never fails.