Why is the Money Not Making Me Happy?

Dear Believer,

Lesson: The Illusion of Wealth and True Contentment

There are two types of people for whom money becomes a dreaded tool, often misused and abused: those who always have more than they can handle, and those who never have enough and use it frivolously.

For the rich, what they have is never enough. Conversely, those who grew up in poverty often believe that money is the ultimate fix for all their problems. In both cases, the Bible warns us that wealth does not guarantee happiness. In Ecclesiastes 5:10-17, we find a clear warning about the vanity of wealth. Ecclesiastes 5:10 states, "He who loves money will not be satisfied with it, nor he who loves wealth with his income. This is also vanity."

We remain unsatisfied when we attach our desires to a specific number. Whether your goal is a six-figure income or a million dollars, hitting that milestone often just shifts the goalposts. When you change the target amount, your appetite grows, and appetites rarely diminish on their own.

Ecclesiastes 5:11-12 reminds us: "When goods increase, they increase who eat them, and what advantage has their owner have but to see them with his eyes? Sweet is the sleep of a laborer, whether he eats little or much, but the full stomach of the rich will not let him sleep." Chasing money to avoid lack will never be enough because it attempts to meet an internal, emotional need for security. If you do not address the root fear of poverty or instability, no amount of money will make you feel safe.

Furthermore, wealth is temporary. Ecclesiastes 5:13-15 highlights that we enter the world with nothing and leave empty-handed: "As he came from his mother's womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand."

Scripture shows us that money should be used with intent. Ecclesiastes 5:18 states, "Behold, what I have seen to be good and fitting is to eat and drink and find enjoyment in all the toil with which one toils under the sun the few days of his life that God has given him, for this is his lot."

Instead of just collecting money, focus on the journey and enjoy the milestones. Ecclesiastes 5:19 reminds us that God gives the power to enjoy wealth: "Everyone to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God." Do not be like the rich ruler who stored up everything in his barns only to pass away before enjoying it.

Three Biblical Steps to Contentment:

1. Shift your focus: Look away from the money and toward the source of your wealth and health—God.
2. Practice contentment: Work hard, but remember you entered this world with nothing and will leave with nothing.
3. Permit yourself to enjoy it: Savor what you have while you have the ability and health to do so.

Homework:
Which of the three steps above do you find the most difficult to implement regarding your finances?

Prayer:
Lord, I will seek you first, knowing that you provide everything I need. Forgive me for placing more value on money than on my trust in you. Help me remember that you are the source of all wealth and health, and guide me to prioritize my relationship with you and others above material things. Thank you for your provisions, and help me steward them for your glory.

Grace and peace be with you!

Your bible teacher,
Rev. Gessy