When is Enough, Enough?

Last Fall, David and I read a book called Money, Possessions and Eternity by Randy Alcorn. At first, I rolled my eyes with prideful boredom while thinking that I already know what the bible says about possessions and money. I know about having no other gods and about using our resources to serve others. I even know the verse about the comparison of the rich man trying to get to heaven with the camel trying to go through the eye of a needle. You get the point.  What I did not know is how much Satan wants us to think that, so that we don't study it further and let it reshape our lives and our lifestyle.

 I have waited to gradually introduce my thoughts on this book, because honestly I have had to digest them myself. It is a life changing book, if you allow it to be, which is why it is on my list of things to do before you die. You will hear me refer to it again and again, I predict, but for now I want to discuss one aspect of something David and I have been talking about ever since and it came up again yesterday...

When is enough, enough? No, really. If we, in the Christ covenant community, truly believe that our earthly possessions pale in comparison to Christ and are completely opposite of what eternal life is about...then why do we see our resources as "ours" and spend so much on....stuff? Designer stuff. 25% off stuff. Clearance stuff. The best brand stuff? Why is it about making ourselves more comfortable, look better, or feel better? These are the things I ask myself.  What will Jesus say to me about how I spend His resources? I know that it reflects my heart and my priorities, but I still tend to look at them as mine - for my pleasure, not for His glory. 

This week David and I have been in conversation about it again because he received his annual compensation and bonus figures. Now, if you are in the world of banking...everything usually rides on the bonus. During this time in the market, we were just thankful that he still has a job. Even more, we find ourselves extremely blessed that he will make more than he did last year. I always have this initial thought of how much we can accomplish this year with the money or how much we would like to save or give or what trips we would like to take, etc. But, then there is always this question...

If we were living alright this past year, able to enjoy some nice things, live comfortably, still participate in giving and community service - what will we do with the "extra" money this new year?  Do we really need more? Will it just end up in this "black hole" labeled - our spending? Why do we think that because we receive a raise that we are to use that "extra" money on ourselves or to increase our "lifestyle"? Because we deserve it? What if we saw that "extra" money every single year as more money to give to the kingdom - to bless others instead of ourselves? What if. 

David told me of a guy in his group who makes multiple multiple millions a year.  Yes, I said it. I can't fathom it, but I said it. The most unfathomable part is that he complained to them yesterday that he thinks he should get paid more for his outstanding performance this year. Seriously?  Would $15 Million be enough? How about $20M? Is there really any amount of money that will fulfill us and satisfy our longing for importance and respect and power and ego? When is enough, enough?