In Hebrews 13:5, it says: “Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave or forsake you”.

So, how many of us are truly happy with our lot in life? No doubt, whether we are Christian or not, many of us may not be happy with what we have, yet Christians are encouraged to wait upon God to be our provider and sustainer. This is the true spiritual path. Yet, the world tells us that we have to have ‘this and that’ to be happy. But do we really need material things to make us happy?

Often, regardless of our income, we acquire things we don’t really need. Whether that be buying things online and when we shop. So why do we have this kind of behaviour? Do we kid ourselves that we need stuff because a certain celeb is advertising it or has got it? We see members of our family, friends, neighbours, and people on social media, and we feel jealous. Humans are competitive creatures by nature, and it doesn’t matter whether we are male or female: It’s just showing off and showing that we can acquire what our rivals have. Often though, those on a lower budget can get themselves into terrible debt. Before long, they are borrowing money to pay off a debt from loan sharks, money lending agencies, family, friends and more. Instead of managing our money wisely, we fall into debt because we think we need things just because someone else has them when we really do not need such things. The Lord has provided and will provide for us. As ridiculous as that sounds, in a material world, this is a fact.

Sometimes folk turn to crime to acquire what they think they need, while others turn to things like gambling or betting in the hope that they win the money they need to buy stuff they desire. All these are illusions and tricks of the devil.

There are many Christian organisations out there that help people who are in debt. One group is called ‘CAP’ or ‘Christians Against Poverty’. They are a Christian-based charity that helps out all those with financial problems. Another group who may not necessarily be Christian, but have a good track record, is called ‘Step Change’.

So, of course, we need material things in this world. However, let us be sensible with our financial resources, whatever our income, and remember that as long as you have a roof over your head and food in the cupboard, you are more blessed than millions of folk! A healthy perspective can remind us that there are those who are far worse off than us. So let us show compassion for those less fortunate than ourselves and be thankful to our Lord for what we do have.

God bless you,

Nick x.