In what ways can we prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth? Our Key Verse: A Clear Caution “Do not wear yourself out to gain wealth; cease from your own understanding.” (Proverbs 23:4) Why Spiritual Wealth Outshines Earthly Riches - Spiritual treasure is eternal (Matthew 6:19-21). - Godliness with contentment is itself “great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). - The material will ultimately fail us; righteousness “delivers from death” (Proverbs 11:4). - True riches are found in knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8). Practical Ways to Pursue Spiritual Riches First • Start each day in Scripture before scanning news, markets, or social media (Psalm 119:97). • Tithe and give generously—redirecting the heart from hoarding to trusting (Proverbs 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Sabbath rest: deliberately stop producing and earning, affirming God—not money—as provider (Exodus 20:8-11). • Invest time in fellowship and service, building “living stones” rather than square footage (Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Peter 2:5). • Memorize verses that expose the emptiness of greed (Luke 12:15; 1 Timothy 6:10). • Track answered prayers and spiritual milestones the way others track portfolios (Psalm 77:11-12). • Simplify possessions so energy can flow toward kingdom purposes (Luke 12:33-34). Biblical Snapshots of Spiritual Over Material - Solomon asked for wisdom, and God added wealth as a by-product (1 Kings 3:9-13). - Mary of Bethany “wasted” expensive perfume on Jesus—He called it beautiful (Mark 14:3-9). - The Macedonian churches gave out of poverty and overflowed in joy (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). - Paul counted earthly status “rubbish” compared with gaining Christ (Philippians 3:7-10). Guardrails That Keep Wealth in Its Place - Regular gratitude: thanking God for today’s bread uproots anxiety about tomorrow (Matthew 6:11, 34). - Honest budgeting: stewarding well prevents the scramble to “wear yourself out” (Proverbs 27:23-24). - Confidential accountability: a trusted believer who can ask about spending patterns (Hebrews 13:17). - Periodic fasting from purchases or media that stoke envy (1 John 2:15-17). Promises to Those Who Seek First the Kingdom - “All these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). - “You will have treasure in heaven” (Matthew 19:21). - “A firm foundation for the coming age” (1 Timothy 6:18-19). - “True riches” entrusted by God (Luke 16:11). A Daily Checklist for Eternal Investment □ Open God’s Word before opening a wallet. □ Pray over every major financial decision. □ Give something away—money, time, skill—without expectation. □ Speak encouragement that deposits hope in another heart. □ End the day recounting where God showed Himself richer than gold. |
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