As my brothers and I grew up, our mom regularly reminded us that sin is often a false shortcut to a good thing. Ill-gotten treasures may seem like a shortcut to riches, but they are a trap. So, the Holy Spirit reminded us in this passage that ill-gotten riches are not the path to a bountiful and satisfying life. Lasting value — spiritual worth that lives beyond our physical lifetimes — can only be acquired through godliness.

Generous and loving Father, please forgive me for getting caught up in envy and the culture of affluence that suffocates and surrounds me. Please use your Spirit to develop in me the patience and righteousness I need to resist the deceptions of Satan and to pursue the fullness of life you long to bring me. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.