Today's reading

Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. –Proverbs 11:28 NIV

October 4, 2019

Possessions Versus Relationship

Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. –Proverbs 11:28 NIV

Do not hold anything too tightly. Being overly concerned that material goods will be lost, stolen, damaged, or scuffed often distracts you from your ability to care for others. It would be better to get rid of anything you are too attached to, especially if it is preventing you from fully loving your neighbors. Does your fondness for a book prevent you from loaning it out? Does your attachment to furniture or carpeting prevent you from inviting certain people to your home? Examine your heart for areas where materialism may be hindering your ability to fulfill the Lord’s command to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus said, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15 NIV).If someone does inadvertently damage or lose a valuable that belongs to you, resist the urge to react too strongly. No possession is worth destroying a relationship. Whether your friend breaks your expensive vase, your son’s car leaks oil all over your new driveway, or your grandchild wets the bed in your master bedroom, maintain love. Keep in mind that all of your possessions, in truth, belong to God, not to you.

prayer focuses

Pray that the Lord will expose areas of your life where your concern for material goods is hindering your walk with Him.

Pray that the Lord will help you to be generous in all areas of your life.

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about the

Author

Ida Fiorella

Ida is a retired language arts teacher. She lives with her husband, Joe, in Ellenton, Florida. They attend Bayside and are blessed with three daughters, three son-in-laws, and nine grandchildren.