Full Lives vs. Full Pockets
Everyone gets stressed about money. We have unexpected expenses that really stretch us thin. We have major purchases looming that we don't know how we'll afford. Whether you have great wealth or relatively little, odds are you get stressed out about money from time to time.
So have you ever told yourself that if only you had a certain amount more, all of your worries and concerns would go away? Have you even zeroed in on an exact number? Wouldn't it be nice if we could take that number to the negotiating table with God and confidently expect him to grant our request?
This week, we'll be talking about a man who's number was through the roof. Some estimate that he was the wealthiest man who has ever lived: King Solomon. And yet, toward the end of his life, Solomon looked at all that he had accumulated and used a surprising word to describe it: meaningless. His palace was full. His stables were full. The royal treasury was full. And yet when Solomon looked at his life, he considered it empty.
There's a reason for that. All of us as human beings have a deep, gaping need that only one thing can satisfy. Our desire for identity, purpose, acceptance, and hope can only be met by a healthy relationship with our God.
And yet, the devil tries to get us to fill that void with all kinds of cheap substitutes, including money. He tries to get us to use our money and possessions for something God never intended them to do - to give our lives value and meaning. And when he succeeds, we'll inevitably end up right where Solomon did. No matter how much money we might accumulate, we'll still end up feeling empty inside. No matter how much we have, we'll be convinced that it isn't enough.
Thankfully, this week God's Word will guide us in the God-intended purpose for money and possessions. It will also point us once again to the unconditional, forgiving love of our Father in heaven.
See you Sunday!
In Christ,
Pastor Bauer ...more
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- - Volume: 3 - WEEK: 32 Date: 8/7/2015 2:54:54 PM -