Money: Servant or Master?

Written by Sting and sung by The Police, “Wrapped Around Your Finger” topped the charts in 1983. Characterized by mythological references and 17th century phrases, the theme of the song ultimately seems to be ‘control’. Initially, the master is in control of the apprentice—the apprentice is wrapped around the master’s finger – but ultimately, the apprentice is able to wrest control and wrap the former master around his finger. At this point, the servant who was once employed to bring benefit to the master has now turned the tables becoming, potentially, the ruthless master in the process.

SO IT GOES WITH MONEY.

In the beginning, money serves great and sundry purposes. Money is the medium of exchange that in America and beyond is required in order that one might feed and be fed, clothe and be clothed, shelter and be sheltered. Money is important. Money is a blessing. Ask the man, woman or child who does not have money whether or not that is true. Without money, one would starve, die of exposure, or be homeless. Money’s importance is above debate.

However, in today’s society (maybe as in no society before), money has replaced God, family, and health as priority number one. The quest to increase one’s monetary possessions is sought with the passion once reserved for a pursuit of God, faith, and truth. Many times one’s family is left to raise itself while dad, mom, or both chase down the dollar. Often, due to excessive amounts of time being spent sitting at a desk, driving the highways and byways, or pondering the latest ‘get rich quick’ scheme, one’s health sags and ultimately gives way to preventable sickness and disease. Simply put: The power, prestige, and feeling of security that comes from being rich are overwhelming influences on us today. It is around us everyday. We are inundated with it in the media. The pursuit of the Almighty Dollar has become a way of life for many. And Christians are not immune.

In Matthew 6:24, Jesus warned, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (or riches).”

Who is your Master? Who do you serve? Are you serving a ruthless taskmaster or The One whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light? For you, does money serve as a defense (Ecclesiastes 7:12), a means of protection and a blessing from The God of Heaven (Ecclesiastes 5:18-19) or has the servant become your master?

In the coming months, I hope you will take the time to read, study, and meditate on God’s Word as you consider the topic of “Faith and Finance.” In this department we plan to examine and dis- cuss the thoughts God would have us think regarding this important topic, all the while paying close attention to proper application to real life. As the upcoming year unfolds, we at Focus Press hope to provide you some direction by helping you look deeply into God’s Word so that its thoughts and precepts might sink deeply into your heart and mind so that together we might grow stronger and closer to God day-by-day.