“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never fail you nor forsake you.” –Hebrews 13:5
It is often said that, “Money is the root of all kinds of evil.” That phrase is a misquote of an actual scripture that reads, “For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs.” (1 Timothy 6:10) The difference sounds subtle, but important.
1 Timothy is a letter written by Paul to his young student Timothy. This letter is part of continual instruction between Paul and his student Timothy. Paul concludes this letter by teaching Timothy that the “Love of money” has the ability to cause a person to grow in a direction contrary to the faith.
Money, by itself, is not evil. It is simply a tool that allows us to do daily tasks, achieve our goals, and sometimes make our hopes a reality. Money also allows us to bless others. When we give our money through our tithes and gifts to others we show our faith through our giving.
Paul was correct when he wrote Timothy so long ago. We must be careful what we fall in love with. Our passion, our love guides us. It is our own desire that provokes us to us things for one purpose or another. Money is a tool that allows us to make our desire a reality. As Paul encouraged Timothy so long ago, I encourage you to consider what do you love? When we are clear about who we love, and what we care deeply about, we can use our resources wisely.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
