As the Disciples of Jesus, let's stay away from monetary desire!

As the Disciples of Jesus, let's stay away from monetary desire!

The prophet Balaam, in whom the Spirit of the Lord rested, (Num. 24: 2, 3) had gone in astray in the matter of money. Not because of injustice! On the contrary, because he loved money!! Balaam's lust on money and seeking honour of an earthly king, blinded his eyes and so he not realized that he was doing against God's will.

God tested him to see what was in his heart !!

When Balaam initially sought God, God gave a clear answer: "Don't go to Balak the king." But when Balak gave him more money and honor, Balaam fell into lust and seeked the permission of God to go back to Balak. God granted his request, but he also caused a terrible disease to afflict them (Ps.106:15). He did not realize that he had just been tested and that the lure for money had misled him!

The love of money is the root cause of all kinds of evil. God has made worldly things attractive in order to test our truth and piety. Jesus Christ did not want His disciples to seek the things of the world. We are called to seek first the kingdom of God and its righteousness. Then all our worldly needs will fall into our lap! Our worldly needs will not be met by telling our needs to humans and requesting them or secretly conveying our needs to humans! On the contrary, if we put our trust only in God, then it will be met! With the blessing of the Lord, all our worldly needs will be met. There will be no suffering (Prov.10:22; Phil.4:19).

Prayer:

Heavenly Father! Thank you for making us to realize that the "monetary desire" is the enemy that separates us from your way! Give us the grace to live vigilantly! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

Author:

Brother Zac Poonen