October 18, 2017
I heard of a commencement speaker who told a graduating class to make all the money they could, just as long as they made it honestly. That's some pretty bad advice!
If you're trying to make all the money you can, then you're going to be making money when you ought to be doing something else. You're going to be making money when you ought to be praying or going to church. You're going to be making money when you should be spending time with your family or even getting a good night's sleep!
Nobody should have a goal to make all the money he can. Yes, you have to provide for your family, but when you, dear friend, determine that you're going to be rich, at that moment you put yourself in a very vulnerable position.
Do you want to be content? Then read 1Timothy 6:6-10:
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 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.
The phrase "they that will be rich" isn't describing someone who is rich, but someone who has set their mind on being rich. Have you ever done that? Then you are in great danger, because this desire can "drown men in destruction and perdition."
Also, let me help clarify the phrase, "the love of money is the root of all evil." Paul didn't say "money is the root of all evil," instead he says the love of money is the root of all evil.
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”