Practice Restraint
The Big Idea of this study is that riches will not buy happiness. It is better to be “rich toward God” and “rich in good deeds.”
It seems like it is natural to think that money will solve our problems. And money does solve many problems. If you are very poor, more money will make a big difference in your well-being. But wealth does not solve the most important problems, even though it seems we think it will. Seeking riches can be a trap and lead to all kinds of problems.
Our text this week warns us about the danger of trying to get rich. This is the Old Testament equivalent of 1 Timothy 6:7-10 “The love of money is the root of all evil…” and of course Jesus’ teaching on the subject. In particular the story of the rich fool in Luke 12 comes to mind “I will eat drink and be merry…”
Since wealth cannot solve the biggest issues of our lives it is better to seek after being “rich toward God” (Luke 12:20) and “rich in good works” (1 Tim. 6:18). Remember Matthew 6:33 “Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you as well.” That is a tremendous promise, but we must focus on seeking the right things.
Questions for Discussion:
- Why is it that it is so natural and prevalent to assume that wealth and happiness are linked together and that if we just had more money we would be happier? What evidence do you see contrary to this myth?
- What does it mean to “show restraint” regarding riches?
- Put in your own words the reasons craving wealth is dangerous and unsatisfying.
- Discuss C.S. Lewis’s quote: “Human history is the long terrible story of man trying to find something other than God which will make him happy.”
- What new habits might you adopt to help you become “rich toward God?”