For the things We have given
For enjoyment to parties
Of them, the splendor
Of the life of this world,
Through which We test them:
But the provision of they Lord
Is better and more enduring.
S.20 A.131
Wealth and all that comes with it has long been a source of ambivalence for me. Not that I have been burdened with it, but that I have pondered over the concept of pursing it. It his hard for me to justify the uneven balance of wealth we have in the world, therefore I have always felt a twinge of guilt when I begin to desire such things. This verse puts a different perspective on my thoughts: The test is not to resist all luxuries, the test is how you acquire and utilize them. I have seen many wealthy people who have earned their fortunes honestly, and used those resources to make dramatic changes in the world, positive changes. I've seen others hoard theirs selfishly. The last few lines in this verse provide a sense of poetic justice though, as whatever we find as beautiful and enticing in this world, if not managed properly, may exclude us from the far more splendid gifts of eternity.
I don't think this verse is limited to what I might believe to be excesses in personal wealth, I think it has to do with however we manage any of our resources. When I buy a new watch, no matter the price, if I have done so ignoring my basics needs or those of my family, I am equally guilty as the selfish millionaire. God does not forbid me nice things, or prosperous ventures, He simply evaluates how I utilize them. I find that I have a lot of work to do here, and it puts a different spin on my decision making process. Likewise, when I waste basic resources, I am squandering God's earthly gifts. This causes me to think about the way I live my life in relation to the things I collect, accumulate, use, and share. I have been generous in many ways, but I need to do a better job prioritizing my resources. I have a great deal to think about.
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