Changi Chapel

"People who long to be rich, fall into temptation ……And some people, craving money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows!" 1 Timothy 6:9-10

An inordinate desire and attachment to the things of this present world, is a prevailing cause of spiritual downfall.

Unless this evil principle is mortified in its root, at the cross – it will in time prevail over the most sincere believer.

That love of the world, which is inconsistent with the true love of God – shows itself in two different ways.

The first is covetousness or greediness for gain. This was the ruin of Judas, and probably the cause of the defection of Demas. For both these men, their covetous passion prevailed, and the last account we have of Demas from the apostle, is, "Demas has deserted me – because he loved this present world." 2 Timothy 4:10

The second is people who would rather squander money. Yet they are equally under the influence of a worldly spirit! They manifest their worldly hearts – by an expensive taste in the articles of dress, furniture and feasting – which are always unsuitable to a Christian profession. They love to flaunt their possessions and impress others with their extravagance.

Those who love the Lord, and whose spirits are lively in His service, will avoid both stinginess and selfish extravagance.

They will rather be frugal and cautious in how they spend their money on themselves – that they may be better able to give more to promote God’s cause, and to relieve the needs and necessities of God’s people.

In whatever degree the "love of the world" prevails – the "health of the soul" will proportionately decline.

What would you savor more today – the pleasures of God or the fleeting pleasures of riches?

John Newton
Author/Pastor/Hymn Writer (Amazing Grace)

© John Newton. Excerpted and adapted from his writings.

Your comments, thoughts or suggestions are welcome. The body text is by the author, the header and the words in italics are mine – John B. Samuel