Managing wealth

‘As a result the master of this dishonest manager praised him for doing such a shrewd thing; because the people of this world are much more shrewd in handling their affairs than the people who belong to the light.’
And Jesus went on to say, ‘And so I tell you: make friends for yourselves with worldly wealth, so that when it gives out, you will be welcomed in the eternal home.’
(verses 8,9)

Read Luke 16:1-13

Robin Hood was a shrewd character. Legend has it that he robbed the rich to help the poor. Social injustices were apparently rife in Nottingham Shire. Robin didn’t despise wealth, but he wasn’t about to stand by while the rich grew richer at the expense of the peasants.

Read Luke and you’ll soon discover that Jesus has a heart for the poor and needy. Jesus loves those who are wealthy, but he has a strong concern for the poverty-stricken millions who daily go without life’s necessities.

Jesus calls you to be shrewd in the management of wealth. Misused wealth is an abomination in the sight of God. But when you use wealth shrewdly for the good of others, you gain their friendship. You may even be working for their eternal salvation.

Heavenly Father, give me a shrewd mind to manage wealth wisely for the good of others, so that they may be blessed both now and in eternity. Amen.

by Simon Cooper, in ‘Renewed Hope for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2000)

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