In today’s world, it is very hard not to show greed sometimes. I’m just like everyone else and I can definitely say that money can be a security blanket! It sure is nice to have and it is certainly helpful in paying bills and, of course, buying things that are just not necessary. It’s hard when we see others gain so much in life and we continue to struggle just to buy something extra.
So, sometimes we have to ask ourselves, what’s the problem with having greed?
It’s when money becomes the only thing that we focus on or the only thing that we desire, that there is greed. When we covet physical things, then this can come to replace our need for God in our lives. However, it’s not just money that can make us greedy. There can be a greed for power and the corrupting of it. When power hurts others in our quest for more (be it fame or fortune), then that is greed.
The act of being greedy can lead into a breeding ground for dissatisfaction with what we already have and makes us begin to only look at and want what others have. This is where the adage “the grass is always greener” can come in.
Trust me, I have to fight that myself. Life can be overwhelming! I’m sure that most of you have the same problem that I do….. I see that others have something that I have only been able to dream about! It can make me angry because I want it too!! But then…I soon realize that that is greed as well. So, I have to step back and assess what I have now and appreciate the value of it.
I have come to realize that, things…… are just that, things. They will never replace the value that I have in my marriage or in my children. Greed can never take the place of family and friends and a job that fulfills me. I will always have to fight this urge to see what others have and want it for myself. That’s human nature, but what I don’t have to do is to give into it to the point that it takes my soul. I don’t want it to separate me from God and then risk having to live a life without him!
So what have I learned? Although, I like things, I love my God more. He gives me love back when a thing or object can’t. When I want to become greedy, then I get down on my knees and pray for God to guide me to a better path. Because I am human, it will be a constant battle…..that I intend to win.
What can you gain from this? Greed has a tendency to rob you of the best you that you can be. Humble yourself to ask for help. If you need someone to counsel you (therapist, preacher, priest, etc.), then don’t hesitate to seek help. It certainly doesn’t make you weaker. Realize that when you see a better way, then a better you will emerge!
A Joyful Mission 