The Root of All Evil

“The love of money is a root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have been led astray and have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves through with many acute [mental] pangs.”—1 Timothy 6:10 AMPC

Money worries cripple people every day. Millions are obsessed with money issues. They fret about their income and wonder how to pay their bills. They agonize about their savings.

Proving this point, a recent survey concluded that 73% of Americans said that money causes more stress than anything else. In fact, “Stress related to money worries can have a real impact on people’s psychological health.”

We all need money. But as Paul warned, the drive for money can become an obsession. It can dominate our lives, developing into a “craving” that can lead us away from God. And these worries often intensify.

The Bible tells us God wants us to be freed from worries, fears, and the problems that can result from them. But we cannot be free as long as money is the focus of our lives, and we trust in our resources. Paul told Timothy to “flee from all these things.” Instead, we are to “pursue righteousness … godliness … faith, love, steadfastness … and gentleness” (v. 11).

Today, remember that everything you have is a gift from God. He promises to supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19). If you seek first His Kingdom, He promises that “all these things” will be added to you (Matthew 6:33). Seek to be a good steward of the resources you have been given. Trust God. Let Him remove your stress and worry.

Reflection Question: How do you balance your financial needs with your spiritual priorities?