Greed Indeed

Read Proverbs 1

Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money; it robs them of life.

Proverbs 1:19

It starts simply enough. We need enough stuff to get by. We want the good things of life for ourselves and our loved ones. Soon, however, “enough” just doesn’t seem like enough. Greed has gotten a hook into our heart. Solomon knew firsthand what greed could do: In the quest to get more in life, true life starts to ebb away. In this passage in this first proverb, he passes on the benefit of his experience.

What happens when greed takes over? As we long for more stuff, we gradually lose our relationship with the Giver. Without this connection to the Source of life, true life in its eternal richness gets lost. But if we seek to gain more and more of the rich relationship that God offers—through prayer, reading the Word, and worship with his people—God is pleased and will bless us. Let us, in a sense, become “greedy” for the riches of a life lived in close connection with God.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Greed never meets the need.

Lord, may I seek the riches that you offer and not those of the world. Make me greedy for a deep relationship with you.