Read: Luke 12:16-20

Greed is the feeling of wanting to have more than what is actually needed by us. It can be generated due to immense passion for procuring something that you already have or what someone else has that which you desire in your heart. People can be greedy for money, vehicles, houses, land, etc. “Those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Tim. 6:9-10).

Elisha had healed Naaman of his leprosy, but did not accept any reward from Naaman. Elisha said, “As the Lord lives, before whom I stand, I will receive nothing.” And he urged him to take it, but he refused” (2 Kings 5:16). But when Elisha’s servant Gehazi saw that his master did not accept anything from Naaman, he followed him and cunningly acquired the gifts (2 talents of silver and two change of garments) without Elisha’s knowledge. Elisha cursed Gehazi, “The leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and your descendants forever.” And he went out from his presence leprous, as white as snow” (2 Kings 5:27). Gehazi, the servant of Elisha, became a leper due to his greed.

What is the point of amassing wealth, if you are to die today? You will not be able to take anything with you when you die. King Solomon said, “As a man came from his mother’s womb, naked shall here turn, to go as he came; and he shall take nothing from his labour which he may carry away in his hand” (Eccl. 5:15). Jesus said, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). We are not to worry about what we would eat or drink, or what would happen to our future. Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6:33).