How can we ensure our possessions don't hinder our relationship with Christ? Setting the Scene Matthew 19:22: “When the young man heard this, he went away in sorrow, because he had great wealth.” A devoted seeker stands face-to-face with Jesus, yet his possessions pull him away. The tension we feel in this scene still confronts believers today. The Heart of the Problem • Possessions are not evil, but they quickly compete for our affection. • Jesus warns, “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). • “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). The issue is loyalty: who—or what—owns our heart? Practical Steps to Keep Possessions in Their Place • Treasure Christ above all – “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field” (Matthew 13:44). – Regularly rehearse His worth: salvation, forgiveness, eternal life. • Give generously and strategically – “Instruct those who are rich…to be generous and willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:17-18). – Set a percentage or first-fruits rhythm (Proverbs 3:9; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7). – Look for Spirit-led opportunities: missionaries, local outreach, neighbors in need. • Guard your desires – “Watch out and guard yourselves against every form of greed” (Luke 12:15). – Limit exposure to materialistic influences: ads, impulse-buy environments, envy-driven social media. • Cultivate contentment – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11-12). – Thank God daily for specific provisions; celebrate enough. • Live simply and transparently – Budget with eternal priorities in mind (Matthew 6:19-21). – Invite accountability: share financial goals with a mature believer. Warning Lights: Signs of Drifting into Idolatry • Anxiety spikes when finances are threatened (Matthew 6:25-34). • Giving shrinks even as income grows. • Purchases become secretive or compulsive. • Discontent lingers despite God’s clear provision. Rewards of Surrendered Stewardship • Freedom from the chokehold of worry—“Seek first the kingdom…and all these things will be added” (Matthew 6:33). • Joy in generosity—“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). • Eternal dividends—“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • A clearer, unhindered walk with Christ—where possessions serve His mission rather than sabotage intimacy with Him. |
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