I've heard it preached many times that money is the root of all evil. Many Christians believe that it is Christ-like to be poor, and that it is evil to be rich. Obviously, if you believe money is evil, you will always be poor. And, if you are always poor, then it will be difficult for you to properly provide for your family.
The problem with the "poor is Godly" philosophy is that if you study the lives of the biblical patriarchs (and matriarchs), you will find many of them were rich. Yet, I don't think any Christian reading this article would say that Abraham, the father of faith, was evil.
So, let's take a closer look at the verse that is at the heart of such controversy.
"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."
~1 Timothy 6:10
Right away, we see that it isn't money that is the root of evil, but the love of money. You see, money doesn't have any more morals than a brick. It is completely amoral. It isn't good. It isn't bad.
You can use the brick to break a window (evil) or to build a building (good). Money is the same way.
Money will take on the characteristics of whoever has it. If you are a godly person, then you will use money for good. If you live in darkness, then you will use money for evil.
The fact is that not much can be accomplished in our society without money. True, you can barter for some things, but few people have the ability to life self-sufficiently. Most of us need money to pay rent or mortgage, to buy food, to pay for utilities, etc.
God also needs us to use our money to further the work of his kingdom. Yes, that takes money too. It takes money to print bibles and pamphlets. It takes money to fly missionaries to other countries. It takes money to pay for television and radio broadcasts. It takes money to elect government officials who have strong moral values.
God told Abram that he wanted to bless him. But why? Was it just so that Abram would be rich and have everything that he wanted? No. God wanted to bless Abram so that he could be a blessing. He was to pass on his blessings to others and bless them. God wants the same for you today.
It is important to realize that money is not evil, and that God wants to bless you financially. It is important to God that you are blessed so that you can bless others and further his work here on earth.
Believe me, I've been where you are. I've been broke, with creditors calling, writing, and sending court summons. I've had my bank account garnished and wondered how I was going to feed my family. But, I can tell you that you can get out if you remain focused on the end goal instead of wallowing around in a pity pool feeling sorry for yourself.
Life was meant to be enjoyed. For more resources on getting out of debt and living debt free, visit http://www.imdebtfree.net. While you're there, sign up for my free newsletter with more tips on how to get and stay debt free, and receive my free report "101 Powerful Tips for Legally Improving Your Credit Score".
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