Roses or Diamonds?

In 6th grade, we had to select a quote and create a speech from it. My quote?

"I'd rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck..." -Emma Goldman

I used to date a guy that acted like financial security was everything. Sure... I guess... If living the American dream is your dream. When I'd say, "money is important, but it's not everything," he'd argue, "No... But you wouldn't be able to travel or do the things you do without it. You wouldn't have this or that..." I'd get so frustrated!

I've never been rich, so perhaps my view is one sided. But I feel like if I were rich, it wouldn't last long because of all the good I could do with it. The world teaches us to save and hoard and crave financial security. What happens if the financial system crashes and the billions you have saved up is worth pennies on the dollar. Might happen, might not... But if it does, what are you left with? What did you sacrifice to reach what you call financial security?

Guys... Ugh... I have a storage building full of junk that I may not "need" or use for the next ten years! Why? Because, the struggle IS real! I like stuff... I am human and I am weak. I often fail, and I have enough shoes to last a lifetime! But that doesn't mean I can't push for change...

The Word tells us, "Do NOT lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Matthew 19:6

Now, I'm not saying that I don't like having a little extra money on hand. I enjoy the finer things... I suppose you could say I have a kings taste on a disciple's budget. BUT even if I had the kings budget, I would hope I'd still use it as a disciple would. I love how Paul said, "Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned that in WHATEVER state I am, to be CONTENT: I know how to be abased. I know how to abound. Everywhere and in ALL things I have learned to both be full and be hungry, both to abound and suffer need. I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." -Philippians 4:11-13

Stuff is okay. But not when it consumes us or takes priority over other things in our lives.

I’d rather live in a shack with a someone who loves me, respects me, believes in me, and protects me over living in a mansion with someone who merely provides financial security. MONEY ISN’T EVERYTHING. In fact, it’s nothing if you have no one to share it with.