I have no problem with legitimate profit, I do have a problem with greed.
When more people want an item that there is a limited supply of, the price will go up, basic economics, at least that is what we are told to believe. No matter what scenario you can envision on this topic, economics is not the answer, greed is.
“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.” (1st Tim. 6:10)
Notice what that love does, it pierces through the one ensnared by it.
How much of what you claim to own actually belongs to you and how much do you owe money on? Are you a slave to the lender, can you control your appetites in this regard, are you capable, or rather, willing to live within your financial means? My friends, as long as there are people who have wants, there will be greedy people willing to fulfill them.
Now the real question, the only pertinent question for those of you who have been born again, do you honestly know what your needs are? And I refer to those materialistic items that, most generally, can only be obtained with money.
“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19)
How many people do you know who are truly hid in Christ whose every need has been provided for, yet have no form of income? Any at all? Probably not.
The monetary system of the planet was initialized by the Almighty, and for good reasons. Beyond the barter system being impossible with the amount of people on this planet, the only alternative to a cash-free society would be a form of forced servitude. Kings and serfs, masters and slaves, there is no third option.
Every governmental agency will inform you that all the land within their nation’s boundaries belongs to them, and by them, I mean those who are currently in authority. Here is the first footprint of greed.
“Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.” (Prov. 23:3)
Can you remain where you live, can you put food on the table and clothes on your back without money? Can you provide for any of your needs without any form of incoming finances? Is this how the Almighty has determined to provide for our needs, by the sweat of our brow for the coin of the realm.
Can you understand now why I said the Lord instituted the use of money?
Job sat on that dunghill for months, probably with his friends providing for him, and his wife, their daily needs. Lazarus was placed at the rich man’s gate, his need provided by the crumbs. Greed was the last thing on their minds.
Who desires more? Those who have much, or those who have little?
This short letter to you is not about the love of money, it is not about greed, it is about contentment and being able to honestly know the difference between a want and a need. I have never in my life met anyone, myself included, that does not want more, and I have met very few people who truly seem to understand what we are to want more of.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:33)
What things do you suppose would be added unto you if you followed that verse? How about this. More wisdom, more Spiritual discernment, more of the ability to be able to discern between good and evil. More truth, God’s truth. Along with all that will come with it, contentment, a peace that at times passes all our understanding, unquestioning assurance of His promises.
That my friends is what I am greedy for.
Let those of the world have all the world has to offer.
“After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” (Gen. 15:1)
