"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness."
— 1 Timothy 6:10-11 (NIV)
Money. We struggle to ensure we have enough for retirement and loved ones, and struggle to make sure we aren't greedy. Evil is a heavy word. How do we discern our motives and where is the balance?
If the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil, then it is delighting in money or what money can get us that can be the source of our problem. Oftentimes we look at verse 10 by itself, but it is verse 11 that sheds light on our motivations. It is what we are pursuing with our finances that reveals the condition of our hearts.
We don't have to be in fear of being captive to our approach toward money. We just need to be intentional and honest.
It is not just the avoidance of money that gives us victory. We need to be able to handle money in a way that is faithful and glorifies God. Having a positive approach helps us to be intentional with all that God has given.
Pursue righteousness.
Are we pursuing righteousness with the money has given, or using it for ungodly purposes?
Pursue godliness.
Will the investments and spending we do with God's provision bear good fruit in our lives?
Pursue faith.
Will our budgeting serve to build faith in others? Including our family?
Pursue love.
Will our use of money help us to cultivate love of God and others, or love of things and money?
Pursue Endurance.
Are we encouraging ourselves and others to persevere with our finances, helping others in their time of need and providing for our loved ones?
Pursue Gentleness.
What is the manner of our behavior around finances? Sometimes our character exemplifies the hold money has or does not have on us.
When we bear fruit in our lives that brings God glory, the way we handle money will flow from a generous heart rather than a greedy one.