TUESDAY 18/3/2025 EXCESSIVE LOVERS OF MONEY
2 Timothy 3 verses 1 to 5
“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy… lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”
Money is an essential part of life, but for narcissists, it is a tool of control, manipulation, and self-glorification. They use money to create an image of greatness and see wealth as proof of their superiority. Narcissism and greed are a dangerous combination that destroys relationships, families, and spiritual well-being.
In our text, Paul warns that people in the last days will be lovers of themselves, greedy for money, and arrogant. This description perfectly fits the modern narcissist who uses wealth and status to gain power over others. The Bible teaches that money itself is not the problem, but rather the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10). Narcissists are not just obsessed with money—they see it as a way to control others and feed their egos.
For a narcissist, money is not just a tool—it is a way to gain control and power. They flaunt their wealth and present themselves as successful and influential. But behind this facade, there are often lies, manipulation, and financial abuse.
Narcissists use money to make others dependent on them. They may prevent a partner from becoming financially independent by restricting access to funds or using debt as a means of control. Financial manipulation forces others to comply with their wishes. Some narcissists even sabotage their partner’s career or education to ensure that they always remain in control.
Materialistic narcissists measure their worth by what they own and how others perceive them. They buy expensive cars, wear designer clothes, and live in luxury homes—but often, this wealth is just an illusion, funded by debt or gained through exploiting others. They may also lie about their income or steal from others to maintain their status.
Even within families, narcissists see their children and relatives as investments rather than people to love. They use money as a means to dictate relationships, seeing people only as a way to gain financial or social advantages. For them, money equals power, and they use it to control, punish, or reward others based on how well they serve their agenda.
As Christians, we must guard against the love of money and develop a healthy relationship with finances. Money should be used as a tool for God’s work and to help others, not as an idol to worship. Our identity should be found in Christ, not in material possessions or social status.
Two Lessons
- Money is a tool, not an idol. The Bible warns that the love of money is the root of all evil. We should use money to make a difference, not as a way to elevate ourselves.
- Humility is worth more than wealth. True riches are not found in money but in character and a life that honours God.
PRAYER Lord, You have taught us that true wealth is not found in money or material possessions but in a life of love, service, and humility. Help me not to be consumed by the pursuit of earthly riches, but rather to store up treasures in heaven. Give me a healthy relationship with money and help me to use it to serve others, not to gain control or power. Protect my heart from the temptation of greed and teach me to trust You as my provider. Give me wisdom to recognize when someone is using money as a tool of manipulation and to manage my finances with integrity. May I always remember that You are my true source of wealth and security. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN