Undue need of material possessions can enslave one
Jesus explains that undue need of material possessions can enslave us. The need for wealth, houses, estates, clothing and various items can tap into our sinful natures, and cause us to become blinded to reality and to pursue material goods unendingly.
Jesus issues a stark warning; no-one can be slave of two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other. In the same way, it is not possible to have full allegiance to God and to be enslaved by undue love of money. The reason is simple; in the mindless pursuit of wealth and material possessions, we may leave devastation in our wake.
We may gain possessions in a manner in which we would be glad that Jesus Christ should see; or we may gain these in a way we would like to hide from the Son of God. We may gain our wealth by dishonest practice, cheapening our spiritual fiber. We may become powerful and wealthy by knowing destruction of the reputations and lives of others, causing much devastation in their lives.
Possessions may be poorly used, hoarded, utilised for selfish needs only. An individual may use wealth malignantly, using personal possessions to bribe others and corrupt them. One can use personal possessions to persuade others to do things they have no right to do, to sell things they have no right to sell.
This may not be true in all cases. Wealthy benefactors are known to use wealth for great good for others. Yet the time spent in having to maintain and administrate wealth may tap into personal time and freedom.
The individual who follows the ways of God cannot bow to the dictates that relentless pursuit of undue wealth and material possessions forces upon one. Allegiance to God as our Lord and Master frees us from the need to place money and material possessions on a pedestal. Following the ways of God allows us to use money and material possessions in sensible manner, instead of being enslaved to the need for more and more.
This does not mean that each one of us does not require possessions in order to function in a material world. Of course we do. We require shelter, clothing, food, health care and many other supports. Prudence dictates that we make use of finances and possessions in calm and orderly manner. Money and requirements should remain just that - finances and possessions as a means to an end. We cannot exercise due care as stewards during our earthly time in this world without some finances and support. However, money and possessions are just that - a means to an end, not an end in themselves.
Be free. Don't bow down before the falsity of undue obsession with money and material possessions.
Bow down before the Eternal Throne of Almighty God alone.
With thanks to Youtube
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