God or Money
READ: Luke 16:1-13
Mark’s father had just been called home to heaven. After the death of his father, he had been left with an inheritance of $550,000. This was quite a large sum. Mark’s three other brothers were not given as much money. After all, Mark was the oldest of the four. However, it was the way in which they used their money that made all the difference. Mark’s large sum of money was squandered carelessly on excessive partying, drinking, and immoral relationships. Thankfully, his brothers didn't follow his example and chose to use their inheritance in more God-pleasing ways. One brother used his money to build a home for his family. Another brother gave his money to charity. The youngest brother spent his money to invest in a savings bond for his future children’s college fund.
In the text above, a similar situation takes place. The manager, an employee of a very wealthy man, abuses his position by serving money as his god. In Luke 16:13, God says, “No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” In the same way, God says that if you can be trusted with a little amount of something, you can be trusted with a lot, and vice versa. We must, therefore, serve God above money, men, and all material possessions.
It’s really quite simple. Serve your Lord God above all else. Nothing else in this world matters. Once again, we cannot serve both God and money. We will only end up despising God. God says in Luke 16:15, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts.”
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: What kind of situation can I personally think of that relates to this key part of Scripture? How did I handle that situation? What can I do to witness to others?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Pray to the Lord, thanking Him for whatever honorable position He has ever placed us in. Ask the Lord for help in order that you may serve Him better. Pray for others so that they may understand what serving the Lord is all about.