Challenges In The Possession and Use of Wealth

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With regard to wealth, the rich and the poor face many similar challenges. Paul’s famous, oft misquoted text, “For the love of money is the root of all evils,”[58] has put the fear of wealth in many God-fearing people. First, it is important to remember that it is the love of money and not money itself that is the root of all evils. The topic in the context of this verse is contentment. Paul is telling his reader to be content if they have food and clothing, their basic needs.[59] In the verse before and the root-of-all-evils verse, Paul speaks of “desire” and “craving,” but never possessing. Still, he maintains that the attraction of wealth is a serious concern for all people, because both rich and poor may love money, and it may lead to wandering “away from the faith.”[60]

Riches are attractive. They appear to provide security and certainly the opportunity to have more fun in life. As for the ultimate security in Christ and the ultimate joy and happiness, they are a delusion. Both the rich and the poor may be deluded equally. The delusion of the rich leads to hoarding, because, like the rich fool, they think the more they have, the more secure they will be. The delusion of the poor leads to covetousness. They desperately want what they do not have, because they think they will be secure and happy if they get it.

Although temptations to love and trust wealth are faced by all, there are two types of challenges unique to those who possess wealth. The first and most serious is the fact that with abundant wealth comes adoration and even adulation from people with less. The status and prestige given the wealthy tempts them to think more highly of themselves than they should. The sense of power over people and material things tempts them to lose their sense of dependence on God.

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The second challenge unique to the rich is the distractions that possession of wealth may bring. Jesus warned against this danger in the parable of the sower. In this parable some of the seeds were choked out by thorns, which symbolize the “cares of the world and the delight in riches” which “choke the word.”[61] Those who suceed in business must always guard against becoming imbalanced and thus overwhelmed by “cares of the world.” Their work needs to be done in moderation, and they must not neglect all aspects of physical, mental, and spiritual health. They must also not be excessively wrapped up in “the delight of riches.” Perhaps, it is for this reason that James warned against luxurious living.