More Money More Problems

"When I win the lottery, I will be able to do everything I've ever wanted to do." This was a conversation between a friend and I. This friend has played the lottery for a long time now: every Wednesday and Saturday for the past years to be exact. I couldn't help but feel a bit sad. It was so easy to see that his hopes and dreams rested on guessing a series of numbers in order to win millions of dollars. Well, what if he never wins? He would have spent so much time, money, and effort for nothing. His dreams and happiness rest on him becoming rich by winning the lottery. What is he does win? Statistics show that most people who win the lottery spend it all within the first few years. He will be able to travel the world and buy pretty much whatever he wants; but then what? Is that really what life is about? People who place their hope in money just end up being let down. I was never a millionaire, but my parents were good stewards of their money. We had a good life; nice car, nice house, nice family trips. All of a sudden these things were gone. My parents divorced, we lost the house, and we ended up living with my uncle. We went from being a middle class family to a low class family. I learned the hard way that money comes and goes. So many people's dreams and happiness depend on money. Just turn on the radio and you will hear a bunch of songs about money and material things. My happiness and joy does not rest on something as unstable and temporary as money. I can't help but think of my life verse to help illustrate what has been my key to happiness and satisfaction: Psalm 37:4 Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.