treasure or tool?

I don't think a lot about money.  I guess in some ways that is good.  In some ways, I just don't know enough about what to do with it to be wise.  That's one of my goals this year ... to figure out how to be most wise with money.  My parents blessed me with good models in budgeting and saving, but I have no idea how to invest it.

This morning, at the church I love, we started a new series called, BROKE: Picking Up the Financial Pieces.  And I'll be honest.  I kinda figured it would be on the boring/obvious side ... the normal, don't get into debt thing.

But honestly, it was so good.  And it made me want to read all the Dave Ramsey I can to figure out how to invest with wisdom.  Because the point of the sermon was to use money as a tool rather than view it as a treasure.  When we see it as a tool ... it can be used to bring good to more than just ourselves!  Cause let's be honest, most of the money I waste is on the small little impulse purchases that add up.  I am so sure there are little changes I could make to end up with even more money I could use to bless others.  And it would be more $ for my gift fund ... the place my Mom is sure I spent the MOST money!

The sermon was based around Eccl 5:10-11

Whoever loves money never has enough;

whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income.

This too is meaningless.

As goods increase,

so do those who consume them.

And what benefit are they to the owners

except to feast their eyes on them?

As we closed today, Chip gave us a taste of what the next three weeks have to hold ... as we learn to see money as a tool, we will be able to ...
1. leave an inheritances
2. leave an investment
3. leave junk for joy

Whatever God has given are for us to ENJOY life.  Christ didn't die for us to live in misery! 

God gives some people the ability to enjoy the wealth and property he gives them, as well as the ability to accept their state in life and enjoy their work. They do not worry about how short life is, because God keeps them busy with what they love to do.  Eccl. 5:19-20 (NCV)