A recent Bible reading from 1 Kings 10 and part of chapter 11 speaks of the amazing effect the God-given wisdom given to Solomon had on the queen of Sheba. Sadly, within a few verses, we read of his spiritual downfall so that chapter 11 verse 9 records, “The Lord was very angry with Solomon”. In between these two events, we read of incredible wealth, including the phrase (10:21) “Silver was considered worthless in Solomon’s day”.
As someone who has been involved with finance for most of my working life, I recall incidents in my own and other’s experiences where money, riches and wealth have been too important and for the Christian have interfered with relationships with God. Though, for personal reasons, I have never participated in the National Lottery, football pools or the like, I have sometimes considered what I would do if I came into a substantial sum of money. My good intentions may never have benefitted the many I “considered in my plans” and could easily fall into the trap so that like Solomon, my attention was directed in ways that would result in God’s anger.
One of the challenges for the Christian may be money management. I was brought up with the recommendation to have a “rainy day fund” but how much should that be today? With long life almost the norm, and the prospect of funding future care, will there ever be enough? Meanwhile, there are many requests for giving financial support to “needy” people, organisations, food bank supplies as well as Christian organisations covering a vast array of subjects and needs.
I recall debates about the relevance of tithing, but find Romans 12 a helpful guide. If we are prepared to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice then, for me, that involves my mind including decision-making. So, to avoid the love of money being the root of all evil my prayer must involve seeking and knowing God’s will in and for my life, including money management!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, managing our assets may be a small but important part of our lives. Please grant us the wisdom and guidance to make us “wise stewards” and be effective to those in need. And may those currently in need be blessed as a result of your guidance in our lives. AMEN