The Wealth of the World

By Denise Spooner

These days everyone is talking about the wealth of the world. Perceptions of those viewing wealth as a means of prosperity seems to be likened to a fish out of water. Like the poor helpless creature frantically flipping around from side to side seeking out its escape back to its life-sustaining tank to no avail, we pace back and forth, keeping busy enough to continue the steady cash flow in order to sustain our current lifestyle.

Our perception of wealth causes us to need nothing, our richness of monetary means brings a sense of security and confidence all is well. When really what is happening, is that our richness, wealth and need for nothing has moved us to a state of being lukewarm in God’s eyes. Revelation 3:15-18 tells us, “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. So, then because you are neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of my mouth. Because you say, I am rich, have become wealthy; and have need of nothing” – and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked –I counsel you to buy from Me gold, refined in the fire, that you may be rich.”

Wealth is directly related to our state of mind, our independence and the things we do to others and for others in our lives. We may think we are rich, but if we are not rich in Godliness, we are as good as vomit. WOW! Now, how many of us want to be thought of as internal waste? My hand is not up, is yours?

This world and everything in it will one day pass away, so why not take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of wealth? Many of us think wealth is treasure we obtain and possess. Matthew 6:19-21 reminds us our treasures are not to be what we consider them to be. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroys, and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” True wealth is treasure we lay up for ourselves in heaven by the good we do for others while on earth.

If we see wealth as material items, large bank accounts, estates worth millions or the vehicles we drive, we are nothing more than vomit to the Lord…and isn’t He the one we will one day answer to anyway?

The wealth of the world leaves us wanting for more; the wealth of the Lord is more than enough. What kind of wealth do we choose?

Denise Spooner writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. created2write4him@yahoo.com