Learn to be Content
Shared by Patricia Backora, author of the book
Tough Love in Christ's Millennium
Which you can order online from: http://www.publishamerica.com
John 6:27; I Timothy 6:5-6; Philippians 4:11; Hebrews 13:5; Revelation 3:17
The Laodicean Church was so materialistic so that its members lost sight of the Master Who bought them for Himself. That same spirit of carnality now pervades My end-time Church.
My Son said, “Labor not for things which perish.” He meant that nothing should dethrone Me in an individual’s heart, not even the quest for legitimate necessities. How much more grievous is it when My dear people feel pressured by their fellow believers to toil extra hours to pay for superfluous extravagances in order to keep up the appearance of “prosperity”? Those who are content with cheaper apparel or humbler household furnishings are often painted as slothful, slovenly or irresponsible.
Materialism in a Christian is often regarded as a sure sign of godly diligence and industry, rather than as a pitfall of the flesh. Indeed, so many of My people fear they show a poor testimony to the world if they don’t look “successful” enough. These misguided ones imitate the world by competing with one another to appear the most prosperous; and, by association, the most spiritual.
What burdens My people put upon one another! I expressly commanded you to be content with whatever things you possess. My resources are often wasted to replace things which are still in perfect working condition, but which a capricious, money-hungry world says are no longer “outdated”. Driven by feelings of insecurity, many will even go into deep debt to buy more stylish cars, or fancier furniture.
Prudence and moderation were once considered signs of spiritual growth, but such virtues are out of sync with those demanding immediate gratification. The Children of Israel were once enslaved to Pharaoh. But now My children are in bondage to credit cards and life-long mortgages. They are investing in future anxiety. They are much too encumbered to freely serve Me.
What will the Ministers of Materialism say when they bring Me the fruits of their erroneous doctrine? Their status symbols, fine jewelry and electronic toys will not stand the test of fire. Neither will they endure as eternal treasures.
You are bought with a price. Do not devote your lives to the acquisition of transitory, perishable things. You are here to serve Me, not to be greedy of gain, leading others astray down the perilous paths of covetousness.
