How can we prioritize spiritual over material wealth in our daily lives? Apostolic Example: People over Possessions “See, I am ready to come to you a third time, and I will not be a burden to you. For I do not seek your possessions, but you. For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.” — 2 Corinthians 12:14 • Paul’s heart shows that spiritual concern for people outweighs any desire for their money. • The verse models a parent-like love that gladly spends itself for others’ eternal good. • Prioritizing souls above stuff is the essence of valuing spiritual over material wealth. Foundational Truths About True Treasure • Matthew 6:19-21 — earthly treasure decays; heavenly treasure endures. • Luke 12:15 — life is not measured by possessions. • 1 Timothy 6:6-8 — godliness with contentment is real gain; necessities are enough. • Colossians 3:2 — fix minds on things above, not earthly things. • Proverbs 11:24-25 — generosity enriches the giver. Daily Practices That Keep Spiritual Wealth First • Budget with eternity in view: give the “firstfruits” before spending on yourself. • Schedule time for prayer, Scripture, and fellowship before leisure shopping or entertainment. • Invest in relationships: mentor, disciple, listen, and serve instead of accumulating gadgets. • Practice contentment: thank God aloud for current provisions whenever tempted to upgrade. • Use possessions as tools for ministry—open your home, share your car, donate resources. Guardrails Against the Pull of Materialism • Regular, proportional giving resets the heart (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Periodic fasting from non-essentials (e.g., media, optional spending) exposes hidden idols. • Sabbath rest breaks the cycle of endless productivity and consumption. • Accountability: invite a mature believer to ask how you’re stewarding money and time. • Limit accumulation by adopting “one in, one out” or setting a cap on storage space. Promises That Fuel Generous Living • “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). • “My God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). • “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38): God’s economy rewards open-handedness. • Eternal rewards: “An inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading” (1 Peter 1:4). Closing Encouragement Follow Paul’s example: seek people, not their possessions. By daily choosing contentment, generosity, and eternal priorities, we lay hold of true riches that can never be lost. |
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