Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – November 6, 2014
The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.” Luke 16:14-15
God’s value system contrasts with man’s value system. Man values money over relationship—God values relationship over money. Man values gaining power—God values giving power. Man values temporal possessions—God values eternal rewards. Man values recognition—God values anonymity. What God values—brings value.
Indeed, ascribed value prescribes behavior. So, what do you value highly? Perhaps in the past it was the voice of people’s praise that you pursued, but now you understand the futility of this vain pursuit. It’s the caring affirmation from almighty God that brings peace, fulfillment and security. People’s praise is fickle, but Christ’s is consistent and valid. You live in quiet confidence when the acceptance of Jesus is what you value highly.
“Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:5-6, NKJV).
Since ascribed value prescribes behavior—then how we relate to money reflects the value we place on our relationship with God. It is detestable to our Lord when we are driven to make more dollars in deference to growing in our relationship with Christ. What captures your heart—money or your master Jesus? He knows your heart and He knows if your fear of not having enough money has replaced simple faith in His provision. Thus, trust your Savior not your stuff.
The love of money is a rough romance. Communication is non-existent and the relationship never finds true fulfillment. The misguided love of money only leads to disappoint and relational wreckage. However, a love relationship with Jesus leads to the heart of God and all His benefits that money cannot buy. Wisdom values what’s valuable to the Lord.
Money can buy a house, but only prayer can produce peace in a home. Money can buy a car for transportation, but only faith in Jesus Christ can transport you to heaven for eternity. Money can buy fun trips, but trust in the Lord opens the door for the greatest adventure found in His abundant life. Money can be a compliant servant, but it is a cruel master. Ascribed value prescribes behavior, so value most highly your relationship with God.
“He [Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:26).
Prayer: What do I value the most in my life? Does it have eternal significance?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 26:24; Proverbs 10:2, 20; Matthew 13:46; Luke 7:2
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