There have been many misconceptions regarding wealth and the Christian life. I have heard several sermons that tried to tell me that money was evil. I have listened to a few preachers take verses out of context to try to prove their point. I strongly disagree with the premise that money is evil and rich men cannot go to Heaven. I also believe that it is our responsibility to make as much money as we are capable of without sacrificing our duties to our families and churches.
One of the verses I have heard used out of context is, "Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." (Matthew 19:24). What the preacher won't tell you (and may not know this himself) is that one of the gates of Jerusalem was called the Eye of the Needle. During the night time, it was the only gate that was passable. In order to get a camel through it, they had to get the camel on its knees and scoot through it. It was somewhat difficult but nothing like what we would envision today, literally getting a camel through the eye of a sewing needle.
Why is it difficult for a rich man to enter Heaven? That is an easy answer. When a man has a lot of money, their priority becomes their money. Money is not the root of all evil, but the love of money is. Since I have owned my own business, I have made sure that I do not compromise my values and beliefs. I believe that tithing is more than just about giving 10% of my money to the church. We have other resources that are much more valuable than money. The biggest asset we can give to our church is our time. Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day. I believe that we should also tithe our time to our church. Speaking of tithes, when was the last time you were able to give more than 10% of your paycheck? We are required to give 10%, but it is important that we give more, not out of a sense of duty, but as a desire to spread His kingdom on earth.
Just imagine how much more our churches could do if we were all able to give more money and time! Imagine the impact we could all make if the church's resources were increased significantly. Picture how many soles could be saved if more of us were able to give more of our time to helping the church. I know many of us cannot go on missionary trips to Africa or other places because we have small children that we cannot leave, but why can't more of us spend time helping people right here at home? One of my favorite ministries I was ever involved with was helping the poor and elderly with home repairs. There was one day in particular that I will never forget. We had replaced a roof on a house owned by a homosexual couple. They were so amazed that we would do that for them. Why wouldn't we? It was the best way we could show God's love for everyone.
I truly believe that we should all strive to earn more money and have more time to give to our family and churches. The best way I found to do that was by starting my own business. Others may find different ways to do it, but for me this was the best option. I know have the freedom to work when and where I want. I have more money so I can give above and beyond my tithes. I am there for all of my kids' events. I can give much more time to my church. Starting my own business has made me a better man and definitely a better Christian. You can review my Christian Home Based Business.
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