Money Isn't Everything

I made more money in the first four months of 2021 than I’ve ever made in my life!

How do I feel? Grateful.

What did I learn? Money isn’t everything.

Yes, I feel proud, even successful. But was it worth the type of sacrifices I had to make or the type of losses I experienced? That would be a “No.”

I’ve never been so disengaged, forgetful, tired, snappy, frustrated, burned out, all at the same time, in my life. I had all the money I needed to accomplish a few goals, even several wants, but it wasn’t worth the self-induced physical, emotional or mental turmoil I suffered in exchange.

I had money for nice dinners and special occasions but there was no time for dates or friends. I had money to buy Makai the toys he desired but there was no time to play with him. I had money to buy Major the toys he needed for milestone development but there was no time to teach him.

Somewhere along the way I forgot my “why.” I forgot why I’d made the commitment. It was supposed to be about my desire to be a better partner to Superman and contribute more to our family. Eventually, it became less about my family and more about the money. 

That’s the thing about greed, it sneaks up on you.

When the root of your motivation is greed, you’ll ignore the harm your actions can cause others. In my instance, I had the money, but I was causing harm to my loved ones by missing moments. You may start with genuine intentions but if your desires don’t remain submitted to the Holy Spirit, you can be enticed and drawn away by your own lust (James 1:14). And contrary to popular belief, that is the ultimate betrayal- self betrayal.

Don’t get me wrong, I plan to make a lot more money again in the future. I want every piece of what God has planned for me. But now, contentment will be a part of what drives me because my inward sufficiency, that’s true abundance.