What Does God Value?    
 

by Doy Moyer

 

“Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, were listening to all these things and were scoffing at Him. And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God.” (Luke 16:14-15) This passage is enough for us to examine what we highly esteem. If God detests what is highly esteemed among men, and we know what is highly esteemed among men, then that gives us some insight into God’s view of these matters. In context, the love of money is the issue. Has this changed? Money and stuff is still front and center. When we look at the world, in general terms, what else do we find that is so highly esteemed? Hollywood, stars, musicians, entertainment, sports, outward looks… and what in the world do the constant selfies tell us? What can you add to the list? What do you value that may run counter to God’s wishes? One might say, “but these are not wrong in themselves.” Neither is money. The point is how much we esteem these items. How much relative value are we placing on them? How much are we glorifying ourselves and our own desires? Paul tells Timothy to flee those things that end up piercing us through with much grief, among which is the “love of money” (1 Tim. 6:10-11). Paul also warns about troubling times that would include “lovers of self,” “lovers of money,” and “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Tim. 3:1-4). My dad used to talk about “respectable worldliness”—getting so wrapped up in stuff and things that may not be wrong in themselves, but which end up taking our time and our minds away from God. These are deceptive because on the surface they seem to be okay. They aren’t the “really bad” things like drugs, drinking, and fornication. They are those things that are esteemed by others, valued, and so aren’t seen to be problems at all. And that’s where the problem is. It’s what we esteem the most that gets us into trouble. We may well be placing great value on that which God detests. God, grant us the wisdom and discernment to see, and the courage to act. Help us to value what You value the most, and keep the world in proper perspective. Forgive us for valuing too highly what you do not, and for belittling what you value.      Other Articles by Doy Moyer As Long as it Doesn't Harm Anyone Pathetic Dust or a Living Hope You May be Surprised to Learn Moralizing Over the Gospel Alcohol and Wisdom Brotherly Love The Logic of Authority Was Jesus Literally Forsaken? Baptism and the Blood The Problem With Creeds       For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com