WARNING: The sole pursuit of money is very dangerous!
I know this coming from an “entrepreneur” is confusing to say the least, but we must always stick to the truth. This is not just my opinion. (I also try not to share my opinions - “Opinions are like belly buttons, just because you have one doesn’t mean it’s of any value” ~ Anonymous 😂) Back to this very serious issue: Making money the centre of your life will destroy you. It has destroyed many.
“For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”
Everything around us is being controlled by money, not only at a global level but at a personal level. Just go on social media, the lifestyles that are being flaunted for all to admire and aspire to are sending a message. That bold message is, ‘if you don’t have lots of money your life is worthless.’ Look at the studies on teenage depression and social media use. Our society is under attack. We should never be foolish enough to believe that we are beyond making the mistakes that others have made. Sin is deceptive.
“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!” ~ 1 Corinthians 10: 12
Rather we must exercise wisdom, continuously searching out what is on the seat of our hearts. Our faith has to be top priority. God is always in control. No earthly gain should be able to topple the seat of Christ in our hearts. Let the Holy Spirit always convict us before we lose our way.
“Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart.” ~ Psalm 26 : 2
I’m not saying don’t have nice things, rather don’t let nice things have you. When money has you, it is in control. When you have money, you are in control. The difference is easy to see if you are willing to take a long hard look at yourself. When money has you, you can’t imagine your life without it. You believe you are nothing without it. I say this humbly, it’s easy to fall into this state I know.
Self-test questions: Are you generous with money? Do you tithe? Do you see people and not financial circumstances? Do you understand that all of what you are and all of what you have belongs to God?
I think we will all be able to relate to this scenario: Have you ever bought something that gave you more trouble than the peace you thought it would provide? All of sudden you are concerned about the theft of this item. All of sudden you don’t want people to touch it. All of sudden it has more value in your eyes than certain people. You realize you had more peace without this item that promised luxury. We all do this at various levels. Some people have cars that need security, others have shoes that need security. Let's protect our hearts first. The things of this world can consume. Follow Jesus.
‘It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." ~ Mark 10: 25
The deception of this world is great, it can only be combated by a continuous staying in the Word. Contrary to the ways of the world, we prosper by staying in the word not by pursuing prosperity.
“But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does.…” ~ Psalm 1: 2 - 3
The nourishment of the word makes us rich, not only in spirit but it will result in us prospering in due season. The bible has everything we need for this life and living well (2 Peter 1: 3). Go through all the advice of secular experts on being successful and make sure it lines up with God’s word. God’s Word has us covered.
Become an expert at what you do. Excellence will always be noticed.
“Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.” ~ Proverbs 22: 29
Bring passion and excellence in all that you do.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving”. ~ Colossians 3: 23 - 24
Put in the hard work or you’ll be sorry. You can’t get what you didn’t put in.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” ~ Galatians 6: 7 - 9
Rise and grind. Outwork everyone else.
“Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.” ~ Proverbs 12: 24
Be the CEO of you.
“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” ~ Proverbs 6: 6 - 8
We don’t need money alone; we need wisdom. Pursue wisdom, wealth is a by product of wisdom. The bible says God gives wisdom generously to all who ask (James 1: 5). Wisdom is the key that takes care of everything else.
“In her right hand Wisdom holds a long life, and in her left hand are wealth and honor. Wisdom makes life pleasant and leads us safely along.Wisdom is a life-giving tree, the source of happiness for all who hold on to her.” ~ Proverbs 3: 16 - 18
Stay in faith 🙏🏾
Have a great day 🌻🌻🌻
P.S Join our FaceBook group Christian Entrepreneur’s Toolkit for more “Iron sharpens Iron” conversations. We would love to hear your thoughts.
Be blessed!