5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Capitalism is the exact opposite of this verse. Capitalism says that in order to feel good about yourself, you must have the newest and greatest new toy. We have to “keep up with the Jones.” Last year’s stuff just won’t do. One of an item isn’t enough. We must have 100 pairs of shoes, because they have to “go with the outfit.” For me, technology is my weakness. If I allowed myself the freedom to sin, I would have the fastest computer and gadgets. But I restrain myself. I would love a Smart Car, but I drive a thirteen year old Toyota. I would love a home on several acres of land close to my grown children, but I stay employed and live twelve hours away. Being content is a fulltime struggle for me, and I can bet it is for you as well. It doesn’t matter whether you have a little or alot, being content is hard work. The reason we can be content is that God will always be with us. This reason seems a little out of place, doesn’t it? But I think the author hits the nail on the head. We have stuff and collect it in order to not feel alone. Stuff becomes the substitute for healthy relationships. We buy our kids toys because we feel guilty about not being there to play with them. We buy our spouses things because we chose to spend extra time away because relationships are messy. It is easier to be at work than to deal with what is going on at home. When we are content then we give God space to be our security. When God is our security then it doesn’t matter whether we have millions or only enough for today’s meals, we know everything is going to be OK.
The Arnold Journey 