1. Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

² And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.

³ They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:

⁴ But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

Money is not only a resource but also a responsibility. The Bible teaches that everything we have ultimately belongs to God, and we are called to manage it wisely. Financial stewardship is the practice of handling money with wisdom, discipline, and faithfulness. When money is managed according to God’s principles, it becomes a blessing rather than a burden.

Greed is a powerful force that can take hold of the heart, creating a constant desire for more and a fear of losing what one already has. It leads to selfishness, anxiety, and a focus on accumulation rather than compassion. The Bible presents generosity as the spiritual cure for greed. When a person learns to give freely and joyfully, the grip of the love of money begins to loosen, and the heart becomes aligned with God’s purpose.

The love of money promises security, success, and happiness, but in reality it often produces emotional and spiritual stress. When financial gain becomes the center of life, the heart is filled with pressure, worry, and constant striving. Instead of peace, there is anxiety about earning more, keeping what has been gained, and maintaining a certain standard of living. Loving money does not bring rest to the soul; it creates a burden that grows heavier over time.

Envy and comparison are powerful forces that can quietly influence financial decisions and lead people into harmful choices. When individuals constantly measure their lives against what others have, contentment fades and dissatisfaction grows. This inner struggle often pushes people to spend beyond their means, pursue wealth at any cost, or compromise their values in order to keep up. What begins as simple comparison can develop into financial and spiritual trouble.

1. A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

² The rich and poor meet together: the Lord is the maker of them all.

³ A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

In a world driven by appearance, comparison, and instant gratification, many people fall into the trap of living beyond their means. The pressure to keep up with others, maintain a certain lifestyle, or satisfy every desire can lead to overspending, debt, and financial stress. What may begin as a small step toward comfort or status can quickly become a burden that affects both financial stability and spiritual peace.

In a world where financial security is often seen as the foundation of safety and success, it can be easy to place trust in money rather than in God. Savings accounts, careers, and investments may provide a sense of control, but true security does not come from wealth. Learning to trust God instead of relying on money is essential for a life of peace, faith, and spiritual strength.

Money can provide comfort, convenience, and opportunities, but it cannot give the deep joy and lasting peace that every person truly seeks. Many believe that financial success will solve their problems and bring happiness, yet countless people who have wealth still struggle with emptiness, stress, and dissatisfaction. The truth is that happiness is not found in what we own, but in the condition of our hearts and our relationship with God.

Greed does not only affect individuals; it has a powerful and often destructive impact on families and entire communities. When the desire for money and material gain becomes the primary focus, relationships suffer, trust is broken, and the spirit of unity begins to fade. The love of money can quietly replace love for people, creating division where there should be care and support.