Money and Willpower Are Not Enough

Scripture is clear in (1 Timothy 6:6-12).  “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.” (vs 7) “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” (vs 8) “And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” (vs 9) “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.” (vs 10) “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (vs 11) “But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” (vs 12) “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

It’s not that I love money, but it takes money to live.  There are those who are obsessed with attaining a little more, and then just a little more.  You might say that for some people, money has become their god.  They rely heavily on it, and their self-willpower to gain more becomes everything.

Scripture also says in (Mark 8:36), “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?”

The willpower behind achieving certain goals is second nature to many driven people.  At one time—before I met the Lord—I have to admit that the pursuit of money was first and foremost among my goals and desires.  I believed it could buy happiness and pleasure.

But money and willpower alone were not enough to bring lasting fulfillment.  Yes, I may have found joy for a season in material things, but ultimately, possessions failed miserably to provide true contentment, peace of mind, or a sense of purpose.

So, I ask: if money and willpower are not enough to bring satisfaction, what can accomplish what they cannot?  Perhaps the better question is: who can do the impossible—beyond the bounds of what seems possible?

The answer is simple: Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.  He alone brings life to a soul searching for life-changing answers.  Jesus—and He alone—fills the emptiness within the human heart.  Nothing and no one else can accomplish what money and willpower fail to do.

(Psalm 62:5-8), “My soul, wait silently for God alone.  For my expectation is from Him.” (vs 6) “He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved.” (vs 7) “In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.” (vs 8) “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.”

Written by,

Papa Boyd