Day 234 - The Paradox of Wealth: Navigating the Fine Line Between Greed and Generosity

Can you successfully navigate the paradox of wealth?

Riches are not seemly for a stingy man; and of what use is property to an envious man? Whoever accumulates by depriving himself, accumulates for others; and others will live in luxury on his goods. If a man is mean to himself, to whom will he be generous? He will not enjoy his own riches. No one is meaner than the man who is grudging to himself, and this is the retribution for his baseness; even if he does good, he does it unintentionally, and betrays his baseness in the end. Evil is the man with a grudging eye; he averts his face and disregards people. A greedy man’s eye is not satisfied with a portion, and mean injustice withers the soul. A stingy man’s eye begrudges bread, and it is lacking at his table.

My son, treat yourself well, according to your means, and present worthy offerings to the Lord. (Sirach 14.3-11) Bible Gateway - Revised Standard Version (RSV))

These thoughts on wealth and using wealth seem contrary to many things we are taught. To be greedy is terrible, but so is being miserly. Navigating the paradox of wealth can be challenging. If you believe God rewards our hard work, why wouldn't he want us to enjoy ourselves and our earnings? That is not to say spend every dime or spend to the point of not being responsible for yourself and your family. Yet God does want you to find joy and be happy with what he provides.

You are responsible for using wisdom and finding happiness in all ways possible. Celebrate the gift each day brings, for there is no warning when the sand stops falling through the hourglass. When that moment comes, you can no longer bring joy to those you love and care about. Be a good mother or father, a caring son or daughter, a treasured sibling and friend, and a trustworthy, generous worker. Be confident, not arrogant, and aligned with God in all ways.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, guide me continuously in managing your bounty in my life. Please help me to be wise yet generous, loving and forgiving, and careful yet willing to try. You give me great comfort, and I am grateful to accept your generosity. Father, please continue to help me provide for myself and others and to take care of my responsibilities. You know what I need, and I trust you in all ways. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen