February 13, Greed

Today’s reading: Psalms 61-65

“Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods;
though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them”
- Psalm 62:10.

In a world where some have unprecedented wealth, it is difficult not to focus on getting money. The “have-nots” see what others have and can be envious or set their sights on getting a piece of the good life. Most ethical failures in business are based on the desire to get more money. The Apostle Paul clarified the problem when he wrote to the Ephesians: “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God” (Ephesians 5:5 emphasis added). The desire for more money stems from greed, which is a form of idolatry. Simply put, some people worship money! What are you doing to keep greed from sprouting, taking root and bearing fruit in your heart?