For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 NIV
Now here’s something that’s funny. Not laughable funny, but strange funny. Money and sex are two topics agreed to make for awkward conversation. The adage tells us that politics and religion are likewise difficult topics to manage and they should be avoided, if possible, as well. Here’s the funny part. Research shows that most Americans would rather talk personally about any other of the topics than their personal money management. Is that you? Is the way you currently think about and manage money the very last subject you’d want to discuss openly with your peers?
Why do you think that is the case? Talking about money is awkward because it IS a treasure in very real sense. That treasure is deeply intertwined with our sense of self-worth and social status. Comparison leads to feelings of inadequacy. Feelings of inadequacy or superiority can breed resentment among friends and peers, and can even divide families. For that reason, for many of us talking about money is awkward, and we have even declared it taboo. But the ability to be comfortable with the subject of money is at heart a deeply significant mark of maturity, both emotionally and spiritually. Resources – money and possessions – easily become our treasure, the thing that occupies the throne of our hearts, more than we realize and more than we planned. The psychological and spiritual communities have long recognized that secrets are among the most dangerous elements that attack our well-being.
For Jesus followers, money’s proper place is a big deal. The willingness to talk and think about money and the responsibility to manage it well is vital to our health and future spiritually. Generations of people have shown that when money is a protected, private issue, some personal reactions are typical. Loss of Generosity: Unwillingness to tithe or give sacrificially, viewing giving as an option rather than an act of worship. Constant Anxiety: Persistent worry, and a lack of peace regarding financial security. Trusting God’s provision in any way becomes difficult. Compromised Ethics: As money becomes central it’s easy to justify cutting taxes, employing business practices that are not above board, cutting corners, or justifying sin for financial gain. Neglect of Spiritual Disciplines: Missing church, prayer, or serving is easier because our priority of working for more than enjoying the “fruit of our labor” takes our heart and time that direction. Chronic Discontent: The more we get, the more we want. Until Jesus is truly THE treasure, our hearts always want more.
- Choosing a perspective and then placing myself in an environment where I can be lovingly and frequently prompted to evaluate my “treasure” is good for me. It makes keeping Jesus at the Center of it all more possible and likely.