Nasdaq's Worst Month Since 2008 is a Reminder Not to Serve Wealth
Who, or what, do you serve?
The Saturday/Sunday edition of the Wall Street Journal from April 30 - May 1, 2022, had a headline that undoubtedly attracted a lot of attention.
The headline read, “Nasdaq Caps Worst Month Since 2008.” Just a few days later, the markets continue to decline.
The volatility in the stock markets right now reminded me of what the Scriptures teach.
Who, or what, do you serve?
Jesus wanted His listeners to consider this same question.
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)
That’s a powerful statement - “You cannot serve God and money.” It’s one or the other.
We will either serve God - or something else. We are deceiving ourselves if we think we can serve God AND something else.
Who, or what, do you trust?
Just a few verses earlier, Jesus urged His listeners to place their trust in things that last - not in temporary or easily lost things.
“Do not accumulate for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and devouring insect destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But accumulate for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and devouring insect do not destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
Later in the New Testament, Paul had something to say to wealthy Christians.
Command those who are rich in this world’s goods not to be haughty or to set their hope on riches, which are uncertain, but on God who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. Tell them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous givers, sharing with others. In this way they will save up a treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the future and so lay hold of what is truly life. (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
If your trust is in riches - you will eventually be bitterly disappointed.
However, if your trust is in God - He is trustworthy and the giver of all good things (James 1:17)
As long as the world continues, the stock markets will continue to rise and fall. Uncertainty will continue to abound among those who serve riches.
You have a choice - you can choose to serve Someone different.
You can choose to place your trust in Someone greater than the riches of this world.