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Read: Ecclesiastes 5:10-20

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? This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 (selected verses)

The Money Trap

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

How much money would it take for you to be totally satisfied? A hundred dollars? A thousand? A million?

King Solomon—one of the richest men in history—answers that question for us: “More.”

That’s the trap. Money never says “enough.” It keeps whispering, “Just a little more, and then you’ll be happy.”

But here’s the thing: Money buys things. Like shoes. Phones. Snacks. Vacations. But it can’t buy peace. It can’t buy a purpose for your life. It can’t buy forever.

Solomon saw it firsthand. Riches disappear. People spend their lives chasing wealth, and then what? They die, leaving it all behind. But those who chase God? They’re rich in something money can’t touch—contentment. Joy. Eternal treasure.

This isn’t about saying money is bad. Money is a tool, and tools are useful. It can buy food, pay for a house, or help people in need. But when money stops being a tool and starts being a master, it ends up controlling us instead of us controlling it. That’s why Paul warns that “the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” Not money itself. The love of it.

So, what are you chasing? What do you think will finally make you “rich”? Because if it’s anything but Jesus, you’ll always feel like you need more.

That’s the beauty of Jesus’ shout from the cross: “It is finished!” The thirst for more? Over. Real treasure? Yours. Your future? Secure in the scarred hands of Jesus who didn’t pay money for you but shed his blood.

Prayer:

God, keep our hearts from the trap of “more.” Teach us to find joy in you alone. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What is something that makes you happy that money can’t buy? (Love, friendship, forgiveness, fun with family, etc.)


• Why do you think sharing is such an amazing way to love Jesus? (What happens when you give instead of just keep?)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do people think money will make them happy? Does it really work?


• What does it mean to be “rich in God”? What kind of treasure is that?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How does the pursuit of wealth sometimes pull people away from God? (Think: too busy, greedy, selfish.)


• What’s one way you can focus on treasures that last forever? (Prayer, kindness, forgiveness, helping others, trusting Jesus.)

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