Some people love to shop. They have a perpetual desire to buy, buy, buy.
The craze to find the latest deal is worldwide. There are huge shopping malls
in China, Saudi Arabia, Canada, the Philippines, the United States, and around
the world. A rise in store purchases and online buying show that buying is a
global phenomenon.
Shopping can be fun. Certainly, there is nothing wrong with trying to
find a real deal and to enjoy the things God has given to us. But when we
become preoccupied with obtaining material goods, we lose focus.
Jesus challenged His listeners with these words: “Take heed and beware
of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things
he possesses” (Luke 12:15). He went on to tell a parable about a man “who lays
up treasure for himself,” but is not concerned about his relationship with God
(v.21).
How can we learn to be content with what we have and not be consumed
with amassing more? Here are some ways: View material goods as given by God to
be used wisely (Matt. 25:14-30). Work hard to earn and save money (Prov.
6:6-11). Give to the Lord’s work and those in need (2 Cor. 9:7; Prov. 19:17).
And always remember to be thankful and to enjoy what God gives (1 Tim. 6:17).
To be rich in God is far better than to be rich in goods. (RBC)
