Relational Competition

The desire for money can overwhelm loyalty to a friend. If not kept in check, making money can take priority over investing in relationships. Judas faced this temptation and failed. The one who had been entrusted with the cash violated his trust. He exchanged his influence with Jesus for a bribe of four months income. Too late, Judas eventually recognized the error of his way. He was sorry, but did not seek  forgiveness from his savior Jesus. Money bankrupted his soul.

We all have to keep money in its place or it will place an unbearable emotional burden on our relationships. If we convince ourselves that cash is our Savior and not Christ, we are set up for relational competition. Thus, as we are given more influence at home and work we are wise to give God the glory. The integrity we build up over time is the greatest asset on our balance sheet. Our good name is to be treasured, not exchanged for fleeting treasures. Relationships are the currency that Christ blesses. Money is only meant to enhance how we love and to encourage others.

“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1).

Before we worship at the altar of income, we need to imagine the outcome of loyalty to its idolatry. Instead of security in Christ, we feel the insecurity of money that may be here today, but gone tomorrow. Instead of the dignity of being a disciple of Jesus, we feel ashamed of being used by the pimp of materialism. Instead of authentic relationships that flow from genuine fellowship, we feel rejection from ‘friends’ who flee when our finances are substantially reduced. Relationships remain a priority when they don’t compete with cash. Money is not our driving motivation.

Above all, we chose to remain loyal to Christ, not betraying Him for selfish thoughts of becoming rich and infamous. When the sirens of work try to seduce us for more time, we decide to spend more time with family and cultivating our faith. When an opportunity seems to be too good to be true, we reject it in exchange for acceptance by the Truth–Jesus Christ. When our pride is tickled by influencers who want to use us, say no and humble yourself in submission to the Lord’s heart. Sign a noncompete with cash and serve Jesus alone!

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money” (Luke 16:13).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, keep me honest by not competing with cash, only submission to Christ.

Related Readings: Job 20:15; Matthew 27:5; 2 Corinthians 7:10; 1 Timothy 6:9-10

Post/Tweet today: The integrity we build up over time is the greatest asset on our balance sheet. #wisdomhunters

Additional Resource: Dave Ramsey 9 minute video on money wisdom- http://bit.ly/1um9041

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