There is a danger of setting one’s heart on the wrong things, especially riches. Riches can increase legitimately, yet that too could be a temptation to set the heart on riches. (Psalm 62:10) Strangely, riches could become an alternative god. There are many consequences for placing trust in riches.
Pleasure: Riches pave the way to enjoy luxury and pleasure. Some take excessive pleasure in riches, and it becomes the source of their joy. The people of Sodom began to make pleasure of their god. (Ezekiel 16:49) It included unnatural sex and experimentation with all novelties.
Pride principle: Some become arrogant because they are rich. That makes them possess a superiority complex. Such people treat others with contempt. They deny the dignity of other people, deprive them of rights, exploit them economically, and oppress them socially. Without any hesitation, they even resort to violence to prove their power and control them ruthlessly.
Security principle: For some, riches are the hope and security. In ancient times, people used to bury gold coins in clay pots under their homes and fields. During an emergency, they thought of using them. Today, people also consider money, wealth, and riches as their safety net against unpredictable calamities.
Deception: In the Parable of the Sower, the seed that falls among thorns. (Matthew 13:22) Riches could become deceitful, which does not allow productivity or fruitfulness in the Kingdom of God.
Slave: People misunderstand that more money means more freedom. The opposite is true. With riches, people become slaves to money and serve mammon. (Matthew 6:24) Money sets them in insatiable pursuit, like the deer that pursues a mirage of water that is not there.
Godly advice: Paul advises young Timothy to have spirituality as his priority. Godliness that inspires contentment is a great profit or gain. (I Timothy 6:6) Those who love God would not love money; instead, use money for His Kingdom and glory. Only those who love money cannot love others too, hence, become abusive and abrasive.
Is my heart set on God or mammon?