A man lost a large sum, ten years’ savings, by investing in shares that went bankrupt. In the world, such experiences are considered misfortune or bad luck. Nevertheless, God spoke with the diligent believer: You lost only money, just money? Is everything lost? The man wondered: ten years of sweat, toil, saving them sacrificially, is ‘just money’? As he pondered, he realized how true the fact is that the riches of the world perish. What is valuable? What is eternal? Psalmist David sings: Your love is better than life. (Psalm 63:3)
Life: God’s gift is life. The dead do not praise Him. (Psalm 115:17) Yes, the man lost ‘just money,’ not his life. He was alive to praise Him, worship Him, glorify Him, and serve Him. His money was as good as dead; the past was dead, but he is alive; so is his future, which is secure in his hands. Lord Jesus confronted His disciples: “Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?” (Matthew 6:25). Food and clothing money could buy, but not life.
Reputation: The man also realized that he was not the deceiver or exploiter, but a victim. He was grateful that his reputation was intact. As a believer, he could continue to be a witness to the Lord. A good name is better than perfume, i.e. character is better than luxury. (Ecclesiastes 7:1) Reputation is more desirable than great riches, and the favor of God than silver and gold. (Proverbs 22:1
Injustice: It is better to suffer from injustice than commit injustice. (I Corinthians 6:7) God’s children are called to live a holy life. (I Peter 1:15) They ought to imitate God, not imitate the world, and not respond like the average humans, who are sinners.
Restoration: King Amaziah foolishly hired foreign soldiers for one hundred talents of silver. The unnamed prophet warned him, so he was willing to send back the soldiers, but was worried about the loss. The prophet said: The Lord can give you much more than this. (II Chronicles 25:9)
What is my attitude towards worldly riches?