For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. (1 Timothy 6:10)
I have heard time and again people misquoting 1 Timothy 6:10. “Money is the root of all evil,” they say. That’s not what Paul said at all. He said the love of money is the root of all evil. Money, in itself, is neither good nor evil; it is the disposition of the heart toward it that determines how it will be used. Paul was not speaking against prosperity. He was cautioning us against having a love affair with wealth that sacrifices our relationship with God. When the pursuit of money becomes an all-consuming passion, it will always lead people away from faith and enslave them in a life of moral compromise.
Think about the many ways that the love of money becomes a destructive power. Marriages fall apart because of money issues, people resent their friends and family based on money and money causes serious division among co-workers. I’ve seen siblings who once loved each other squabbling over inheritances and estates during a time when they should be grieving.
The desire for money above everything else causes moral decay among those who have positions of honor and power that are meant to protect and serve the people. In their quest for power and gain, they sacrifice integrity, neglect relationships, and walk away from God, all for the sake of the almighty dollar.
As believers, we are called to have a heart that treasures righteousness above riches, and wisdom above wealth. We need to strive to use our resources wisely, and steward them with integrity and generosity for the sake of God’s kingdom first.
Practical Application
Consider what truly matters to you beyond money. It could be your relationships, spiritual growth, or contributing to a cause God has placed on your heart. Once you realize this, take time to align your financial goals and spending habits with these values. When you make this change, you can ensure that the money you have serves as a tool for God’s kingdom and what He has placed in your heart instead of your personal goal.