Anchor Devotional

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A Root of Evil

“People who want to get rich rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin …. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” 1 Timothy 6:9-10a

If we abuse our bodies with substances, gluttony, laziness, etc., we inevitably harm ourselves and feel the long-term effects. If we fail to nurture our relationships, we damage the very environment where our own well-being can flourish. Paul tells us that the unbridled craving for riches is inherently self-destructive. It has a choking effect on our hearts, leading us into a “trap,” plunging us into “ruin and destruction.” It has led some away from the faith. Others have shown their true colors—that they never belonged to Jesus at all.

Jesus tells us, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money” (Matthew 6:24). Paul didn’t say that money is the root of all evil. But the love of it certainly brings on a world of trouble.

When we live for wealth instead of for Jesus, money becomes our functional god. And this feeble deity cannot provide, cannot satisfy, can never bring us what only God was meant to bring.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS
1 Timothy 6:9-10

INSIGHT
Father, make us content in the love You lavish on us. Thank You for providing for us materially. Help us use our money for Your glory. Amen

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
2 Samuel 22
Psalm 147
1 Timothy 3-4

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