Avoiding Financial Temptation

Paul taught Timothy that those who want to get rich fall into temptation and snares.

Paul knew the heart of man.

Like the world, Christians rationalize indulgence. Our affluence has distorted our priorities and we compromise truth in the deception of self-fulfillment.

Vanna White, the letter spinner on Wheel of Fortune, recently admitted regretting a decision she made early in her life. Too embarrassed to ask her dad for rent money, she ignored her conscience by getting paid for photos made in lingerie that were later purchased by Hugh Hefner for Playboy magazine. From the beginning she thought, ”I shouldn’t be doing this.” And, yet…. she did.

Paul told the Corinthians “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

The problem for many is that pride keeps them from seeing God’s way out. We tend to do what is right in our own eyes.

Once a Christian becomes trapped by pride, he is of no service to God. He too easily gives in to temptation to elevate self. To avoid it, he must make himself accountable to others.

A husband and wife must be accountable to one another. Both should desire honest and loving pride detection and remember transparent discussions about finances must be grounded in humility.

Businessmen and women need someone to hold them accountable and spur them on to good deeds.

Studying God’s Word and seeking to serve Him is the key to combat the deadly sin of pride. Crown’s online MoneyLife Personal Finance study walks you through what God’s word says about your money and how to avoid dangerous traps like pride. You learn biblical principles and practical ways to honor God with your finances and live every day as a good steward.