Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
There are many warnings in the Bible about giving in to greed and longing for riches. Jesus warned, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abu...
Login or Sign Up to view the rest of this answer.
James Kraft
Supporter
The rich young ruler had a problem that he thought he was obeying all of the comandments. Jesus knew his heart. The rich young ruler wanted another law to obey instead of trusting in Jesus to save him. LIke the Pharisees he thought the way to heaven was in obeying the law, instead of knowing that he was still a sinner and needed a savior. Obeying the law will not save you, but salvation will help you to obey the law. Riches are still a problem to many though. That is why so many have their credit card maxed out to the limit. We want more than we have and put ourselves in bondage to the lender. We do not know what tomorrow is going to bring. You may loose your job and not be able to pay all the debts you have run up. Oh, but we have to have the latest thing whether we have the money or not. There is always a day of reconing. The bills have to be paid. The borrower is a slave to the lender. Don't spend more than you have. This is not a law but a very good principle. To many christians live way beyond their means to keep up with their neighbor. This to is sin. Keep out of debt and be thankfull for what you have. If the Lord has given you wealth, be thankfull for it. As Paul said, I can abound in both wealth and poverty. If we let riches control us the Lord might just take some away for your own good. He knows what we have need of. There is nothing better than to be out of debt both spiritually and materially. Then thank God for both.
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
Examples of covetousness are Achan (Josh 7); Saul (1 Sam 15:9,19); Judas (Mt 26:14,15); Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11); Balaam (2 Pet 2:15 with Jude 1:11). "Covetous people break all God's commandments to satisfy their lusts because, at the heart of sin is sin in the heart" (Matthew 15:19, Wiersbe). Relate this to Exodus 20:17. But I guess my favorite verse about greed is one I memorized when I was with the Navigators doing their Topical Memory System: Of the 23 Verses to Feed Your Soul... they say: Here are 23 verses for you to enjoy with your family. Take time around the dinner table to discuss the following topics and discover what God’s word has to say about them. You could start the conversation by asking, “…what does this passage say to us today?” 14. Generosity Proverbs 11:24-25 "One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want." Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." 16. Avoid Greed Luke 12:15 -- CEV Then he said to the crowd, “Don’t be greedy! Owning a lot of things won’t make your life safe.” Things won't make your life happy either. I am just including the two that I think are the most relevant here.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible