I think a lot of people in our congregations get confused when some learned brother advises us that we must all join in a fervent fight against “materialism.” If men and women do not know what materialism is, how can they be expected to join the battle? Materialism in its crisis form occurs when men and women created in the image of God accept and look upon matter as “the ultimate”—the only reality. The advice, “We must fight materialism,” does not mean that everyone should get a sword and run after a fellow named Material, and cut him down. What it does mean is that we should start believing in the fact of God’s Creation, and that matter is only a creature of the all-wise and ever-loving God! The believer is not deceived into believing that the physical things we know and enjoy are the ultimate end in themselves.
Verse
Nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy. 1 Timothy 6:17
Thought
If men and women do not know what materialism is, how can they be expected to join the battle?
Prayer
Lord, I pray that You will remind me that it is the Creator, and not the created that matters in life. Help me to focus on You and not the temporary things of this world.