Keeping Money in its Proper Place

O. T. #2231 "Keeping Money in its Proper Place"

July 8, 2022

Habakkuk 2-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

As God responded to the prophet's questions, we read of His judgment upon Babylon, who took Judah captive and destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple. He names their 5 different sins:

1. Selfish ambition

Covetousness (verses 9-11) There are 3 ways to get wealth: work for it, steal it, or given as a gift, according to Ephesians 4:28. The Babylonians took Judah's land and wealth, as well as articles in the Temple for themselves. Their power and what they coveteth (greed; gain greedily) helped their empire grow and have false security. 

Then God brought on disgrace and shame. Eventually the Babylonians lost their lives and the Medes and Persians conquered them. This was God's plan.

Mark 8:36 asks, For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 

Christians need to be careful to not focus on material wealth for selfish reasons. What does it gain us if our fabulous houses, luxurious cars, and toys becomes what we live for, yet do not worship God, read His Word, obey His principles?

Are we using our money to help others? To share the Gospel?

LET IT GROW

3. Exploitation of people (verses 12-14)

The use of bloodshed of innocent victims, prisoners of war, and slave labor to built the Babylonian kingdom profited them nothing. It is all gone today. Museums reveal their marvelous ways.

Verse 14 says, For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

A day is coming when the Messiah, Jesus Christ, will rule as King over His people during the Millennial reign. He alone is God and is to be worshiped.

Are you ready?

LET IT GO 

Teach us to love You, family, friends, and neighbors.

Help us to keep money in its proper place.

God, You alone are worthy of worship and praise and glory.