"But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." 1 Timothy 6:6-10
On this day we celebrate the uniquely American observance of Thanksgiving. All over the country and in many parts of the world, families will gather together around a well set and well filled table and thank God for what they have received and what they are about to receive. Churches may have Thanksgiving prayer services and perhaps offer meals to the less fortunate in their communities. Friends will sit together before the game and go over lists of things for which they are thankful. It is right and proper that we indeed give thanks to our great Benefactor and Provider, not just this day but all days.
Perhaps before the day is done, however, thoughts will turn to our plans to participate in some form of "Black Friday" shopping, which interestingly enough now begins on Thursday. America leads the world as a consumer nation. So much of our time, talent and treasure is geared toward obtaining stuff. Driven by everything from personal desire to corporate greed, we literally shop until we drop for things we do not need but just want because it is the latest and greatest and the people next door have it.
Beloved there is nothing wrong with wanting nice things in and of itself. I am reminded that God once lavished Solomon with super abundant wealth such as the world had not seen before or since. It is important to know, though, that Solomon when given the opportunity to receive whatever he desired only asked God for wisdom with which to carry out the work of caring for and leading His people. Our problem can be that we lose sight of what God already richly provides (Matthew 6:31-33) in pursuit of things that can actually lead us away from Him. This makes the desire for money and stuff potentially very dangerous.
On this day and all days, let us thank God for what He already provides as we continually seek His righteousness and His kingdom.
Increasing in faith,
Lee
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