Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” (Luke 12:15, NLT) In this morning’s reading, Jesus teaches the perspective one should have toward possessions and money. Jesus says that life is not measured by how much one owns, yet that is what we are so prone to do! At the heart of this is greed. Jesus then explains this greed in the story of a rich man who accumulated much and said to himself, “…you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!” But notice what God said to the man, “…You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?” (Luke 12:19–20, NLT)
Taking this a step further, Jesus says to His disciples, “…Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. (Luke 12:22–23, ESV) Jesus shows us that greed and faith don’t mix. He explains it further when He says, These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need. (Luke 12:30–31, NLT)
As believers, we must be careful not to allow greed to shape our perspectives on stuff, convenience, and the future, for it will surely crowd out faith. Anxiety (stress), fear, and a devalued quality of life follow greed. Faith, however, sees beyond the stuff that dominates the unbeliever to our security in Christ. Faith crowds out greed, bringing into view the kingdom of God. Is not life more than food or raiment? May God help us keep things in proper perspective!
Thank you for joining me as I read and journal chronologically through the Bible! This devotional reflection comes from Luke 12-13.