LIving With Risks-Finding Security in a Risk-Filled World

The Snare of the Love of Money

In an effort to get rich quickly, many people take big risks with their money. Sadly, taking such risks often leads to financial loss or ruin. To the servant of God, however, the Bible says: "Let him do hard work doing with his hands what is good work, that he may have something to distribute to someone in need." (Ephesians 4:28) True, the hard worker may not always become wealthy. Yet, he has peace of mind, self-respect and perhaps even funds that he can donate to a worth cause.

The Bible warns: "Those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and hurtful desires, which plunge men into destruction and ruin. For the love of money is a root to all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have . . . stabbed themselves all over with many pains." ( 1 Timothy 6:9, 10) There is no denying that many "who are determined to be rich" do get rich, but at what cost? Is it not true that their health, family, spirituality, and even the quality of their sleep suffer? -Ecclesiastes 5:12.

A wise person realizes that "life does not result from the things he possess." (Luke 12:15) Money and some possessions are necessary in most societies. In fact, the Bible states that "the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners." (Ecclesiastes 7:12) Unlike, money, the right knowledge and wisdom can help us in all circumstances, but especially in matters affecting our life. -Proverbs 4:5-9.

Next time: Better Health and Security-Thanks to the Bible

Watchtower, 2001