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The United States economy is expected to exceed $21 trillion this year, even though nearly 20 percent of minorities live below the poverty level. Such wealth is the envy of the entire world and many people flock to America hoping to earn some of this wealth. Yet money has its downsides. Moses, in his last words to ancient Israel highlighted the danger of wealth. We read this in Deuteronomy chapter 8, “Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the Lord your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees that I am giving you today. For when you have become full and prosperous and have built fine homes to live in, and . . . your silver and gold have multiplied along with everything else, be careful! Do not become proud at that time and forget the Lord your God,” “Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful.” “If you ever forget the Lord your God and follow other gods . . . you will certainly be destroyed.” These warnings about the slippery slope of wealth should alert us to always keep a level head about money. We all know the value of wealth, but when it becomes our idol, we can drown ourselves in many hurtful desires.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
