Scripture to Read: Luke 12:13–21
Jesus had just taught on not worrying about how they would respond when facing persecution, the need to be fully committed to God, and how God loved them deeply and would take care of them. Then, someone in the crowd asked a random question. We find this in Luke 12:13–15, “Someone in the crowd said to Him, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.’ 14 But He said to him, ‘Man, who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?’ 15 Then He said to them, ‘Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.’” This person was so focused on getting their share of the inheritance that they totally missed what Jesus had just said. So, Jesus gave the warning to guard against greed. Jesus knew that this man’s covetous heart would do him more harm than any share of the inheritance he might receive. Greed robs us of peace and contentment. Greed always focuses on wanting more, and there’s never any satisfaction. Jesus then shared the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16–21. The rich man thought everything he had was his. He said, “my barns,” “my grain,” “my goods,” and even “my soul.” He never said look what God has blessed me with. He may have had worldly wealth, but God called him a fool because he was not rich toward God. The stuff of this world can distract and destroy if our hearts are not guarded against it.
Challenge & Application
Why does Jesus give such a strong warning against greed?
How can we guard ourselves from hungering for the junk of this world instead of cherishing and treasuring our Lord and His Word?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!