Devotional Scripture

Proverbs 28:15-16 (KJV):
15 As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.
16 The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

Proverbs 28:15-16 (AMP):
15 Like a roaring lion or a ravenous and charging bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people.
16 A ruler who lacks understanding is (like a wicked one) a great oppressor, but he who hates covetousness and unjust gain shall prolong his days.
Thought for the Day

Like ferocious beasts, oppressors prey upon others. Greedy rulers oppress through harsh laws, exorbitant taxes, and merciless treatment, exploiting the poor for their own selfish means. They are "beastly" in nature. In the Book of Revelation, the Lord describes a "Beast" system that will rule the earth. The root of this system is ruled by the love of money; a snare to everyone on the earth. Many today are already spiritually marked with the "mark of the beast,"which is in part, the love of money (Revelation 13:16-17).

Buying and selling is the system of the world. Many Christians are seeking after what the Gentiles were seeking in Matthew 6:31-32: the things of this world. There is nothing wrong with Christians buying and selling, but we are not buying and selling our souls. We are in the world, but we are not of it (John. 17:14-16). We handle the things of this world, but it is not in our hearts. Even so, the "beast" system has infiltrated the church through the influence of carnal Christians. These worldly Christians are puzzled by other Christians not seeking after money. They have sold out to the "beast" system by allowing its pleasures to consume their time and money. They have money for the things they desire, but they do not have the money for God. It is sad to see preachers manipulating God's people to give in order to support their own exorbitant lifestyles. There are pastors who will not deal with an elder's sin because he has a lot of money and gives to the church. Such pastors are not wholly serving the Lord but the "beast" system. Many ministries will go where they can receive the largest offering, rather than where God might ask them to go. Despite these abuses, we are not excused to quit giving. If we fail to give to worthy causes where there is a genuine need, we fail our Lord.

Those who are part of the true church; the bride of Christ, will love and honor God in all areas of life. Believers with the mind of Christ, walking in the Spirit and doing the works of God do not compromise with the world system. Its ways and desires are not in their hearts; its mark is not on them. Because they know that true riches are eternal, and their greatest treasure is their relationship with God, they do not commit spiritual adultery by loving the things of this world, or having any friendship with it (1 John 2:15;James 4:4). They are marked with the love of God upon their minds and hearts. They are able to lay everything down, leaving all behind if necessary, in obedience to God. They worship and remain faithful to the true and living Almighty God. They reflect the character of Christ, not that of a ravaging beast that will leave its mark on them.
Prayer Devotional for the Day

Dear heavenly Father, I am grateful for Your bountiful provision in every area of my life. Lord, I do not want to cling to the things of this world and lean upon them for my security. May I always know that my security and blessings come from You, and You alone; no matter what source or channel You have chosen to bless me through. Lord, I am grateful for my blessings, but I never want to put them above You. Deliver me from the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life and the love of money. May I always desire the true riches of Your kingdom above any earthly treasures. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.