Series: The Things We Say - Money Is the Root of All Evil - Martin Wiles

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. Hebrews 13:5 NLT

Although my standard of living would be considered rich by third-world standards, by American standards, I’ve rarely lived a comfortable lifestyle. Making the monthly bills match the monthly income has constantly challenged me.

Despite that, I’ve made the mistake of buying things I didn’t need more than once. My grandmother and mother often said, “That money is burning a hole in your pocket.” All the while, I was thinking, Well, if I had more, maybe it wouldn’t. And somewhere along the line, someone would comment, “You know the Bible says, ‘Money is the root of all evil.’” And I would mumble under my breath, No, it doesn’t. I was a preacher’s kid. I may not have always abided by biblical principles, but I knew what they were.

This verse is like the often-misquoted one: “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). Frequently, we hear someone say, “Money is the root of all evil.” Money isn’t the issue; the love of it is.

The Bible says a lot about money—or possessions. And they’re both the same. I may not have cash in hand, but if I have possessions (even stocks and bonds), I have money. Liquidating my assets gives me spendable funds. Jesus had a lot to say about money, and the disciples and apostles who carried on His teachings continued the tradition.

One thing the Bible doesn’t teach is that money is the root of all kinds of evil. Omitting the word love changes the meaning and distorts the truth. To be sure, those who have significant amounts of money usually love it, but the principle remains: having money isn’t the root of all evil.

Loving my money—in whatever form it takes—causes us issues, not having the money itself. Money is necessary to pay bills and sustain our existence in a monetary economy. Loving our money, on the other hand, will lead us down roads to greed, selfishness, poor decisions, crime, unhealthy relationships, and possibly an eternity apart from God.

Instead of letting the love of money be a root of evil in your life, use it to help others and advance God’s Kingdom work. Give graciously, sacrificially, and with honorable motives.

Father, motivate me to use my money in ways that please you and better our world. 

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