The world will be delighted if a pastor preaches that we should strive to enjoy material success and wealth because God created all these good things for us. But if the pastor encourages people to share their riches, the world will not be so excited. And if he preaches the spirit of poverty, even Christians wonder what it means in our times. If the pastor urges self-sacrifice and abandonment, the world will scorn him.

Jesus warns us of worldly delights. Why? It is because the prince of this world, Satan, deceives us with false promises of worldly delights. First, there is no true satisfaction in worldly delights such as wealth, fame, power. People become thirstier like narcotic addicts. Second, chasing worldly delights deprives spiritual growth. Therefore, souls become unhappy and further away from salvation.

If you want to be happy, spend your riches for others. We already have enough to share with others. You will find true joy in wasting your riches for Christ, like Mary, sister of Martha, who wasted the costly perfume to anoint the feet of Christ. You might think you can make a substantial donation only after you win a lottery. No, you can make a difference now with what you have. The spirit of poverty is not in downsizing to save but in sharing to offer.

Jesus warns us not to make us poorer but to make us happier and save us from the deceits of Satan. He admonishes us to save our souls.