What would it take to make all of your immediate problems go away?
Ask most people that question and, aside from health related issues, the answer usually reveals some kind of material lack. They might need a new car, a new house, a raise, or debt relief. The common thread in all of those answers is that more money will fix them. It’s hardly surprising then, that society is seemingly fixated on the pursuit of money. The “greed is good” mantra lives on in the world’s headlong pursuit of more stuff.
Even as Christians, it’s hard to rise above the materialism that dominates our western culture. Everyday life exposes us to highly desirable things we don’t have. So how can we protect ourselves from the seductive sin of greed?
In his sermon “The Danger in Loving Money,” John MacArthur helps us navigate these waters with fundamental truths from Scripture.
Every imaginable category of sin can flow out of loving money because if you are consumed with the love of money, then that's the driving force of your life—you will do whatever it takes to get it. But if you are consumed with loving the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, then you will set aside anything that thwarts that. That’s why you cannot serve both God and money.
“The Danger in Loving Money” is a convicting call to honestly assess where our affections really lie. John sets forth five simple tests to search your heart for an attitude of greed. He also provides the governing principles for contentment without covetousness—rules for life that apply to rich and poor alike.
John reminds us that the love of money has nothing to do with affluence and everything to do with attitude. Having money isn’t wrong, but lusting after it is. Having possessions isn’t wrong, but coveting them is. Being poor doesn’t make one immune from the love of money—only godly contentment does.
All of us are vulnerable to the devilish snare of loving money; we need to guard our hearts with vigilance. John’s message is an invaluable resource to that end.
Click here to listen to “The Danger in Loving Money.”
