If you are reading this, you more than likely have handled some form of money. Money can mean different things to different people. It is all a mindset. For example, picture a $100 bill sitting on a table. The person viewing it determines it's meaning.
An infant will view it as something new to explore by attempting to taste it, rip it into pieces and/or throw it onto the ground. Someone else could view the $100 as a means to get something, immediately thinking of various things they will receive in exchange for it. Another person may view it as a prized possession and immediately tuck it away. To them, it means more to say they have money "for safe keeping" or " a rainy day" than to spend it in that moment. And yet there may be another person who views it as nothing. They either have no desire for money or they possess so much of it that this $100 bill is small in comparison. The point is, how you view the $100 is all in your mind. It's the same object, sitting on this one table for others to see. It is lifeless yet some people give it life. It can do nothing for you, yet some worship it. It causes stress, happiness, debate, peace, confusion, and indifference. It is all in how we perceive money.
This example is not limited to money. We can no longer give godship, life, companionship or priority to any object. Yes it is nice to have things but don't allow things to have you. Your character should not be altered by things. You are still who God made you to be whether you are in a mansion, in a homeless shelter or in a condominum. (I've been homeless so I know this to be true.) We are called to love GOD with all of our heart, soul, strength and mind. HE is the ONE, TRUE, LIVING GOD. Give priority to Him, the creator of us all. It is He who keeps us and provides for us. So give glory to the Giver and not to the gift.
This is something that may happen immediately for some and may be a struggle to others. It's okay to ask God for assistance. This world is full of lust which He is well aware. (1 John 2:16) This is one reason we are to take on the mind of Christ. (Phillippains 2:5) Psalm 84:11 states "The Lord shall not withhold any good thing from the blameless." (Keep in mind He is speaking on what HE considers to be good things.) Trust His Word and timing and know that everything you want is not everything you need. ...also see Matthew 6:24
