Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 WEB
With these words, Paul quotes Deuteronomy 31:6. In Deuteronomy, Moses explains to the Hebrew people that God goes before them into the promised land to fight their battles and secure their claim over the holy land. God’s words are a promise to his faithful. For those who remain in him, the Lord is always present and a reliable source of comfort.
In his opening of chapter three of his letter to the Hebrews, Paul inspires godly virtues in his readers. He writes in Hebrews 13:1-2, “Let brotherly love continue. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it. WEB” He continues, leading believers to remember those in difficult circumstances, reminding them to honor marriage as God judges the immorality of adultery and fornication.
The Root of All Evil
Discouraging the love of money, Paul teaches the faithful to trust in God for the things we need. We read in 1 Timothy 6:10, “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. KJV” As an example of the evil of the love of money, Judas betrayed Jesus for only thirty pieces of silver.
Christ says in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You can’t serve both God and Mammon. WEB” It is enough for those who believe in Christ to be content with their salvation and service to God’s kingdom. Money comes and goes but Christ is eternal.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the wisdom of your word. Thank you for Jesus Christ. Guide my steps to serve your will. Help me to serve your purpose. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Shepherds and Teachers
