Our next 'Checklist for Life' book insight continues with a look at the unfortunate reality . . . 'Too many American men have a possession obsession' aka 'I see it, I want it.' Now, there is nothing inherently wrong with wanting nice things – but if we are not careful – material things can become a source of false security, even pride.
The same danger exists with money. Many men strive to earn bonuses, to get maximum profit sharing, and to beef up their 401K accounts. 'More' never seems to be 'enough'.
The same danger exists with money. Many men strive to earn bonuses, to get maximum profit sharing, and to beef up their 401K accounts. 'More' never seems to be 'enough'.
Thinking on this, prompts some good questions - like . . .
Am I satisfied with my present earnings? Do they cover my expenses and do they allow me to save as I would like for my future? Or is there more that I need to think on?
Am I satisfied with my present earnings? Do they cover my expenses and do they allow me to save as I would like for my future? Or is there more that I need to think on?
It all comes down to this – the ultimate test for your life. Is your definition of success based on the wealth you gain and the possessions that you have? Many would answer yes to this, but the wise man understands that life is so much more than 'what money can buy'. That being, if you are not happy with who you are with and what you have, you're going to stay so focused the pursuit of those, you may miss what you now have. So please, consider this: Luke 12:15 . . . [Jesus said] “Take heed and beware of covetousness; for one's life does not consist in the abundance of things that one possesses.” Which brings us to the 'I will' challenge of this C4L #5 (answer the following). |
I will (yes / no): _ Remind myself (often) that all I have, or ever will have, has come from God (that's appreciation).
_ Focus on what I truly need in life, not on what I want.
_ Seek God's wisdom and guidance as I evaluate my purchases and investment decisions.
(and/or) ________________________
Things to do: _ Conduct a personal financial audit (review) of my income
and spending to validate I am on track.
_ Read the Book of Ecclesiastes and make sure I have a good understanding of Solomon's insights on wealth.
_ I will find ways to encourage others on their faith journey.
Anything else to jot down? ______________
_ Focus on what I truly need in life, not on what I want.
_ Seek God's wisdom and guidance as I evaluate my purchases and investment decisions.
(and/or) ________________________
Things to do: _ Conduct a personal financial audit (review) of my income
and spending to validate I am on track.
_ Read the Book of Ecclesiastes and make sure I have a good understanding of Solomon's insights on wealth.
_ I will find ways to encourage others on their faith journey.
Anything else to jot down? ______________
And remember God made us to be somebody, not to just have things (and that means you and I).
"If a person gets their attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out just about every other area in their life.”
Billy Graham
"If a person gets their attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out just about every other area in their life.”
Billy Graham