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).
