How can we prioritize spiritual over material wealth, as Psalm 17:14 suggests? Psalm 17:14 – The Core Insight “from men of the world whose portion is in this life. May You fill their bellies with Your treasure; may their sons have plenty, leaving their surplus wealth to their children.” David notices two groups: • “Men of the world” who get all they ever want here and now. • Himself, a servant of the LORD, longing for God rather than goods (v. 15). The passage quietly asks: Which “portion” do we really want? Why Earthly Riches Are a Small Portion • They expire: “Riches do not endure forever” (Proverbs 27:24). • They cannot rescue: “Riches do not profit in the day of wrath” (Proverbs 11:4). • They enslave: “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). What Spiritual Wealth Looks Like • Fellowship with God – “In Your presence is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11). • Christ-centered identity – “You have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). • Eternal inheritance – “An inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” (1 Peter 1:4). Practical Ways to Prioritize the Spiritual • Start each day in the Word before touching your wallet or phone (Psalm 119:97). • Budget with eternity in view: set a percentage for giving before you set one for saving (Luke 12:33-34). • Practice Sabbath rhythms—time that earns nothing yet enriches your soul (Exodus 20:8-11). • Speak gratitude aloud at meals; it dethrones the idol of “more” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Surround yourself with kingdom-minded friends who celebrate generosity over luxury (Proverbs 13:20). Guardrails for a Material World • Hold possessions loosely: “Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have” (Hebrews 13:5). • Regularly declutter and donate; every giveaway trains the heart to release. • Fast from non-essentials (coffee runs, streaming, impulse buys) and redirect the funds to gospel work. The Promise for Those Who Choose God as Their Portion • “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). • “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). • “I—yes, I am your reward” (Genesis 15:1, paraphrased in effect). Key Takeaways • Earthly abundance is a short-lived snack; divine fellowship is a feast forever. • Intentional habits—Word first, giving first, Sabbath rest—shift affections from money to Master. • When God is your portion, you never end up portion-less; you inherit everything that lasts. |
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