Getting Rid of Greed

Do you struggle with greed?  

Most people would likely say they don’t struggle with it at all. In fact, a priest once told me that he had never heard anyone confess the sin of coveting or greed. It’s not only a sin that’s invisible, many find it acceptable. Did you know that the Bible talks far more about greed and coveting than debt and saving? The Bible says that greed is idolatry, a sin on par with adultery and murder. It identifies it as a chief characteristic of the Pharisees and warns us not to associate with the greedy. The dictionary describes greed as an excessive desire for something – typically money or possessions, and God warns us to avoid it. If we don’t, things can easily and quickly become more valuable to us than God Himself.

Colossians 3:5 says, “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.” The antonym for desiring more, more, more is generosity. Jesus told us it’s better to give than to receive. It’s actually to our advantage! So here’s an interesting thought. What if you emphasized getting out of greed more than getting out of debt? You can start today by reorienting your thinking to make giving your top financial priority. By desiring to give, you’ll break the control that greed has had on your heart. It will also lead to great joy and intimacy with the Lord.

And if greed has you trapped in credit card debt, contact Christian Credit Counselors. They’ll create a debt management plan specifically for you. For more information call the Crown Helpline: 800-722-1976 or visit online at crown.org/ccc.