Greed
(S) Scripture
Luke 12:15 (NIV)
15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
Luke 12:22-23 (NIV)
22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.
23 Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.
(O) Observation
When Jesus hears a question about dividing an inheritance he answers by addressing greed. Jesus teaches that our lives are not determined by the abundance of our possessions and we are meant for so much more. If God takes care of lowly sparrows how much more will he provide for those who trust in Him.
(A) Application
We are fast approaching the final month before the mid-term elections. The airways are full of political ads with candidates making all kinds of promises directed at our greed. The emphasis seems to be "elect me and I will get you stuff, whatever stuff might mean. They promise jobs, extended benefits, comfortable retirements, healthcare and on and on we could go with promises that appeal to our greed. These ads play on people's fears and imply that if we should just trust the politician to take care of us. "What's in it for me" is a powerful tool that is the antithesis of what Jesus taught. Regardless of who is elected or what laws are passed we are to trust in the Lord and not the government for our well being. Greed is fueled by fear.
Next week our church is beginning a small group study using Max Lucado's book, "Fearless". I will also be preaching on the same themes each week. It is the "fear not" message from this passage in Luke that is echoed in other New Testament books that form the foundation for this series. When we live fearless lives we experience life at its fullest as God intended for His children.
(P) Prayer
Lord help me not to be deceived by promises that play on my greed. Let me trust in you and you alone. Help me to live a life without fear because I am trusting in You. Amen
2 comments:
I dare you to preach in a "No Fear" tee shirt and shed the tie for the rest of the series. Love to see it!!
I'm struck by the reality that greed is a matter of the heart and not of the pocket book. We often assume that greedy people are wealthy when in reality one can be on public assistance and be greedy. Outrageous generosity that parallels the sacrificial nature of Jesus is the norm for the believer. Agree? By the way, I love the idea about a "No Fear" tee shirt. "Bud"
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