“Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his posessions.” – Luke 12:15

Jesus posts a double alert to the toxic hazard of greed. This is an attitude towards stuff. Note that the problem is not the stuff, but the attitude towards possessions. It can be infections and extremely fatal. Jesus’ warning gives the sense that sometimes your attitude can be open for all to see, but other times it can be hidden, and you are not readily aware of it.

How do you detect this virus?

  • Your attitude is infected with a hunger for more. Lack of contentment is the breeding ground for greed.
  • As you see the possessions of others, or are captured by the advertising blitz, you respond with the: “I want that, I need that, or I have got to get me one of those!” Envy comes in many different disguises.
  • What is your view of money and your possessions? Is it solely for your benefit, or do you understand that you are a steward of what God has given to you to meet your needs and to be a blessing to others?

How can you guard against being infected?

  1. Learn to be content. “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned to secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Philippians 4:12
  2. Affirm God’s love and faithfulness to you. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
  3. Use all that you are and have to be a blessing to others. This is the best antidote for greed.