Ever wonder if the pursuit of wealth can truly fill the void in your heart? The story of Howard Hughes, one of the wealthiest men of the 20th century, offers a sobering answer. Despite his billions, Hughes died alone and unfulfilled, a poignant reminder that money can fill your hands but not your heart. This sermon explores the timeless truth that true wealth is not measured by possessions but by who holds your heart.
The Rich Fool: A Lesson from Jesus
In Luke 12:15, Jesus warns, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” This message is illustrated in the parable of the Rich Fool, a man who, despite his abundant harvest, failed to recognize God as the source of his blessings. Instead, he focused on storing up wealth for himself, believing he was self-made and self-sufficient. But God called him a fool, for his soul was required of him that very night, leaving his riches behind.
This parable challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we like the Rich Fool, counting riches but missing life? Or are we investing in eternal things, recognizing God as the source of everything we have?
Recognizing God as the Source
Everything we possess—our time, talents, and treasures—is on loan from God. When we acknowledge this, gratitude replaces greed. Ask yourself daily, “God, how can I use what You’ve given me for Your glory, not just my comfort?” This mindset shifts our focus from accumulating wealth to being stewards of God’s blessings.
Investing in Eternal Things
Jesus encourages us to “store up treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). This means investing in people, generosity, missions, and discipleship—things that will matter forever. Our culture often tells us we need more to be happy, but Jesus teaches that true satisfaction comes from our heart’s position before God. When we give, serve, or love in Jesus’ name, we’re depositing into eternity’s bank.
Guarding Against the Lie of “More”
The world says, “You need more to be happy.” But Jesus says, “You need Me to be whole.” If having more made people happy, America would be the happiest nation on earth—but it’s not. Satisfaction isn’t about possession; it’s about our relationship with God. Are we missing life or finding it in Christ?
Practical Steps to True Wealth
- Recognize God as the Source: Start each day with gratitude, acknowledging that everything you have is from God.
- Invest in Eternal Things: Look for opportunities to give, serve, and love in Jesus’ name. Consider how you can support missions, help the poor, or contribute to your church.
- Guard Your Heart: Be mindful of the cultural lie that more possessions equal more happiness. Focus on your relationship with God and the eternal impact of your actions.
A Call to Action
If God called for your soul tonight, what would you leave behind, and what would you take with you? When we live for ourselves, we lose what matters most. But when we live for Christ, we gain what can never be lost. Let’s be the men and women Jesus called us to be—surrendering riches and finding life eternal.
A Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to recognize You as the source of all we have. Teach us to invest in eternal things and guard our hearts against the lie of “more.” May we find true wealth in our relationship with You, living lives that reflect Your love and generosity. Amen.
By embracing these truths, we can move beyond the pursuit of material wealth and discover the abundant life that Jesus offers. Let’s choose to be rich toward God, finding fulfillment and purpose in Him.
